Chatham-Madison Kiwanis - Serving Madison, Chatham and Surrounding Towns

February 21 Program: Bailey Brower spoke on the history of The Great Swamp

2012-02-24T10:09:00.000-05:00

Chatham Township Committeeman Bailey Brower spoke to the Kiwanis February 21 breakfast meeting at Charlie Brown’s. With him in this photo are his wife Taz Brower (Right) and Kiwanis President Mary Anne Maloney (Left).

Bailey noted that we all agree that The Great Swamp is a tremendous asset to our part of New Jersey. Having a Wildlife Refuge is unique in our metropolitan area. It all started as Lake Passaic 10,000 years ago. At that time, the ridges along Fairmount Ave. and Meyersville Road were islands in the lake, which extended from the Patterson to the beginning of the present Passaic River. When the glacier that produced the lake left the area, a depression which remained became the Great Swamp. Alluvial deposits of clay and sand hold water in the swamp. Early Indians fished along the Passaic River and hunted in the swamp. In the 1600s Dutch settlers bought the swamp from the Indians.

The swamp changed many times over the years. At one time there were huge stands of hardwood. The trees were converted to charcoal which was used at the Speedwell forge to make cannonballs for Washington’s army. Then, the Noe family moved in. They, as well as others, were farmers. The Noe family had 800 acres, 300 in the Great Swamp. After the trees were cut in the swamp, it was a fertile area for farming. There were good drainage ditches between farming plots. You could walk across the “swamp”. Farmers had deer-hunting camps. The land had rolling corn fields. Salt hay was raised to store ice. Farmers planted peach orchards and there was a peach basket factory in Chatham. There was a lumber mill, Zanders mill, in Green Village.

A blight killed the peach trees and that signaled an end to the farming era in the swamp.

At the beginning of the 1900s dairy farming grew and many rose-growing greenhouses were built. Noe dairy was one of two in New Jersey. The greenhouses were the largest along the Eastern Seaboard. Some very wealthy families owned land in the area.

In th late 1900s, the Port Authority of New York studied the Great Swamp as an area to build a Jetport. Most residents were unaware of the early studies. A large amount of land had to be acquired to set up a National Park and block the Jetport construction. An impediment to creating a park was Miele’s Dump, now called the Rolling Knolls Landfill. A group of people were setting up a 50-year lease for 50 towns in the area to truck their waste material into Chatham Township. The garbage trucks ran continuously.

Marcellus Hartley Dodge, Sr. was a key player in the struggle to establish the Great Swamp Wildlife Preserve. He enlisted support from Frelinghuysen and others. He rounded up the funds to acquire the property. He organized wildlife supporters and with support from Congress was able acquire the first 2600 acres. Fred Treptow, a Township Committeeman, was influential in closing down the dump. When the park was first established, it was called a National Wildlife Preserve. It has grown and now the Great Swamp owns about 7,000-8,000 acres.

Today, the result of all this is a far cry from what was originally intended. The wildlife preserve has turned into a wild fowl preserve. The government flooded the land that had previously been mostly dry, except for drainage ditches. All the ditches were dammed up and water level rose. The Great Swamp is now basically wet. Deer and other animals can no longer live there.

Green Village was once an extensive farming community. Now it is too wet. As wetlands have grown, landowners sold their land to the Great Swamp and the property went off the tax rolls.

There is very little return on the investment which has been made in The Great Swamp. The environmental people don’t want to see any development or change in the municipalities surrounding the swamp.

Streams that feed The Great Swamp are closely monitored. The Chatham Township sewage treatment plant dumps their effluent into The Great Swamp. There is now interest in routing it directly to the Passaic River but the cost is tremendous.

Restrictions and regulations due to The Great Swamp are limiting the development of unused land in Chatham Township. It was very important that the Jetport construction was stopped, but that does not mean that there should be no development. A balanced approach is recommended.

Everyone in the audience loudly applauded this interesting and thought-provoking history of the area.

Drew University Circle K Club – February 21 Meeting

2012-02-24T09:42:00.000-05:00

Drew University Circle K Club President Victoria Dayton (right) and VP Savanna Arabi-Katbi (left) gave the Kiwanis breakfast meeting an update on their status.

The reinstate Drew Circle K is making plans for the coming year. Victoria is the only continuing member who has “stuck it out” during the process of reinstating the club. She and Bob Stannard (in photo), working with the Drew faculty advisor and university administrators, have restructured Circle K and are ready to move on. Membership is now at 19 people. Circle K is planning a “Dance to ELIMINATE” event in March, a “Pizza Dinner”, a “Walk to ELIMINATE”, and making “Hug-a-Bears” for children. Election of club officers will take place the end of March and they will send nine representatives to the NJ District Circle K Convention in March. Victoria thanked Drew University for paying the fees for the club to attend the convention. Victoria also thanked Chatham-Madison Kiwanis for helping Drew Circle-K back on their feet. Members of Kiwanis loudly applauded the speakers and the fine work of the Circle K.

Announcements: Kiwanis February 21 Meeting

2012-02-24T09:32:00.000-05:00

Announcements: Mary Anne Maloney gave an update on NJ District Mid-Winter Conference held at the Ocean Place Resort in Long Branch. Our club sent five representatives who covered the four excellent workshops. She reminded everyone about the March 28 Fish and Chips dinner. Parsippany Kiwanis is having another wine-tasting on March 22 which includes a dinner. ECLC sent us a Valentine’s Day card (which displayed the new butterfly logo for ECLC). Mary Anne passed it around for all to see. Pat Davidson announced that St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Chatham will be holding a Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper. Proceeds will go to Project ELIMINATE.

NJ District Kiwanis International Mid-Winter Conference at Long Branch

2012-02-19T11:37:00.001-05:00

NJ District Kiwanis International held their Mid-Winter Conference yesterday in Long Branch on the Jersey Shore. It was an awesome event with inspiring workshops. Everyone got in the mood when International Trustee Stewart Ross played “When the Saints Come Marching In” on his trombone. Stewart also led a workshop on “Moving your Club from Good to Great”.

Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Representatives attended all the workshops and held discussions with representatives from other New Jersey Kiwanis Clubs.

February 14 Valentine's Day Meeting

2012-02-14T17:40:00.000-05:00

For Kiwanis Valentine's Day meeting, the KI-Noters sing love songs.

2/7/2012 Program: Bill Williams spoke on "The Election, the Media, Polling, & MONEY"

2012-02-09T09:38:00.000-05:00

Bill Williams spoke on “The Election, the Media, Polling, & MONEY” at Kiwanis. Bill last made a presentation to Chatham Kiwanis at the William Pitt restaurant over 35 years ago. He thought another good title for this program would be “A modern American Industry”, because that is what our elections are turning into.

Bill is Professor of Mathematics and Statistics at the City University of New York – Hunter College. In the above photo he is shown with his wife Marion at the Chatham-Madison Kiwanis 2/7/2012 luncheon meeting.

Bill started by reminding the audience of the dramatic errors made by past political polls, e.g. the NY Times headlining Gov. Dewey winning the 1948 presidential election. Polling companies began about 1920 and there were no major errors made until about 1936, when Langdon was expected to beat Roosevelt. At that time, there were only three or four polling companies and methods were not yet perfected – data collection was a new idea. Today, there are hundreds of polling companies in business, academia and media-politics. Some are legit, others are questionable. Bill described how “numerical propaganda” leads people to act on worthless data. He also explained the difference between precision and accuracy.

In Bill’s early career, he worked on pre-data. It is important to carefully plan how data is collected. Outcome of statistical analysis is influenced by how the data is gathered in the first place.

In the world of politics, a lot of candidates have entered the 2012 presidential contest. There is a lot of money available through the Super Political Action Committees. Media (TV) follows campaign events and encourages polling so results will motivate candidates to spend more on advertisements. Candidates advertise and encourage polling to get name recognition (and candidates encourage polling methods that favor themselves).

The Republican primary campaign has had sharp swings as news (including polls) is covered by the media and candidates respond with ads. The Democrats are sticking with President Obama, who presently has a low approval rating. He is also thought to have an enormous (Billion Dollar) SuperPAC war chest. Republicans have much less money.

Media attention seems to focus on issues like Newt’s wives, Bain Capital and President Obama’s singing. Meanwhile, people are donating millions of dollars to election campaigns. Why?

The audience applauded Bill’s entertaining and thought-provoking presentation. Click here for more information.

Announcements: Kiwanis February 7 Meeting

2012-02-09T09:30:00.000-05:00

Mary Anne announced the Valentine’s Day Luncheon next week. She also reminded everyone about the Mid-Winter Conference and mentioned that she, Marc, Betty Anne, AD, Ron and Bert plan to represent the club. There will be a 50-50 raffle. Morristown hospital asked for volunteers to work with children in the pediatric unit - a flyer was circulated. MHS Key Club is volunteering for a Bocce Ball tournament and they need donated items for the “goody bag”. Bob Stannard was acknowledged for his work in reactivating the Drew Circle K Club. A Kiwanis International Webinar will cover “Fundraising”. Karen gave an update on planning for the Awards Reception. Marc encouraged members to consider running for NJ District officer positions. Mary Anne has application forms. Marge sent around a "get-well-soon" card for John, who is recuperating at home after a short stay at the hospital.

Program: January 31, 2012. Fundraiser for Eliminate Project

2012-02-02T09:26:00.000-05:00

Jerry Cunningham led a fundraiser to collect contributions for the Kiwanis Eliminate Project. At the January 31 breakfast meeting, he took the microphone to each table where members put a few dollars in Jerry’s hat and said a few words. One hundred and forty dollars was collected for the Eliminate Project. See photos from the meeting below.

Remembering Clyde Zukswert, President of Chatham Kiwanis 1983-1984

2012-02-01T10:08:00.000-05:00

Chatham-Madison Kiwanis members attended the January 31, 2012 memorial service honoring the life of our dear member Clyde Zukswert. One of his Kiwanis fund-raising projects was selling “Entertainment Books” (you know, those books filled with discount coupons). In the above photo, Clyde put on a chef’s hat to tell members about a great restaurant whose coupon was included in the book.

Program: On January 24 Jeffrey Kerr presented “Who’s gonna make our gasoline?”

2012-01-28T09:49:00.000-05:00

Jeffrey Kerr (R), Energy Correspondent at Thomson Reuters told Kiwanis “WHO’S GONNA MAKE OUR GASOLINE” at the 1/24/12 breakfast. Rich Behling (L) introduced Jeff, who follows the East Coast gasoline, heating oil and jet airplane fuel markets. He has 24 years of experience in the energy field, half as a journalist and half working in the industry. He lives with his wife and daughter in Madison.

Jeff gave a fascinating account of the status and trends for delivery of gasoline to the East Coast area of the USA. After giving an overview of how gasoline is produced, he covered the refineries and pipelines that deliver gasoline to our area.

Many rapid changes are underway because of economic conditions. Refiners are not making enough profit so they are closing plants on the east coast in the USA and in the Caribbean. Many people are out of work because of closings. Alternative fuel sources may not be available in time to fill demand, so the pump price of gasoline will probably rise more than usual this summer. Because local refineries are closing, gasoline must be shipped to the East Coast at considerable cost.

Jeff told about happenings in the transportation and refining of fuels. India is getting into the refining business with a very large export-only refinery north of Mumbai (Bombay). This is having a profound impact on the World market. Europeans are increasing their use of diesel fuel. Gasoline is a byproduct of diesel refining so the USA has received excess gasoline from Europe. Some of our gasoline even comes from Russia.

Huge oil storage tanks are being constructed in Cushing, OK to store oil from Canada transported via the proposed Keystone XL pipeline.

In New Jersey, we have the Linden Bayway refinery owned by ConocoPhillips and Hess refinery at Port Reading, NJ. The Sunoco Eagle Point refinery in Westville, NJ is shut down (assets may be shipped to India). At Paulsboro, NJ there are two refineries - the Nustar Asphalt Refinery and a large nearby PBF Energy refinery. The audience was surprised to learn that PBF Energy, with headquarters in Parsippany, NJ, is in the refining business (they also have a large refinery in Delaware). All the gasoline from the PBF refinery in Paulsboro, NJ goes to Lukoil gas stations. Also, Chevron has an asphalt refinery in Perth Amboy, NJ which operates seasonally.

In Pennsylvania, the ConocoPhillips Trainer, PA refinery is shut down – many workers lost their jobs. The nearby Marcus Hook, PA refinery owned by Sunoco is also shut down.

The very large St. Croix Hovensa refinery just announced that they will shut down next month. Loss of salaries and tax payments from the major employer is very hard on the US Virgin Islands economy.
USA Gulf refineries are increasing their capacity. The Colonial pipeline which carries gasoline from the Gulf to the Northeast USA will increase capacity, but not until next year. The supply of gasoline will be short in the Northeast this year.

Meanwhile, crude oil and distilled fuels from fields in the West are being transported via 100-car “unit trains” to Albany, NY and then by barges to markets in New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware. It would help if the USA could build more pipelines for liquid fuels.

Jeff told many interesting and entertaining stories to the delight of the audience. He was given a rousing round of applause at the end of the talk.

Announcements: Kiwanis January 24 Meeting

2012-01-28T09:35:00.000-05:00

Mary Anne Maloney reminded everyone about the upcoming Webinar and Mid-winter Convention. She also reported on last week’s CHS Key Club meeting. She reported that the NJ District is seeking nominations for officer positions and she has forms that can be used. Mary Anne and Betty Anne Keat had a nice meeting with Heather Alonge at the ECLC Pride Program which provides activities for graduates of the school. Visitors are welcome to stop by – just call Heather. A meeting on “fund-raising” will be held right after today’s breakfast meeting.

Alan Robertson reported on the Fish and Chips Dinner. He has mailed letters out to companies asking them to purchase a placemat ad. He handed out letters to members attending the meeting who had purchased an ad in the past and to other members who will contact advertisers.

"Food Allergies: A Primer" was presented by Karen Leister, Southern Boulevard School Nurse.

2012-01-18T16:48:00.000-05:00

Karen Leister currently serves the Chatham, NJ community as the school nurse at Southern Boulevard School and as the school district’s Nursing Team Leader. She spoke about food allergies at the January 17 Kiwanis breakfast meeting. Her career spans 27 years and she has receive awards in the fields of food allergy and anaphylaxis.

Karen learned about food allergies at an early age because she is allergic to fish. Allergies run in the family – her brother is allergic to sesame. Two of her children also have allergies. Karen developed a keen interest in the field and now has a detailed understanding of food allergies and related emergency treatments.

Food allergies are on the rise in the whole population and especially among children. Thirty-four (6.8 percent) of the 496 students at Southern Boulevard School have severe food allergies. Adult staff statistics are much lower, about 4 percent. These percentages reflect the national trend. She went on to talk about managing food allergies in and out of the school environment. She asked if anyone in the audience has food allergies in their families and many Kiwanis members shared what food they are allergic to.

The incidence of peanut allergy doubled between 1997 and 2002. It is not known exactly why the incidence of allergies is growing. Anaphylaxis is a very serious allergic reaction that has a rapid onset and can result in death -aid is needed quickly. Approximately 50,000 to 125,000 emergency room visits are caused each year by allergic reactions.

Symptoms of a reaction are swelling, hives, eczema, and rash (like a sunburn). Many other more serious symptoms exist. These are a reaction of the body’s immune system. The body generates histamines to rid the body of allergens and the histamines cause serious reactions.

Karen showed a model of the Mast cell (see above photo), the white blood cell that is implicated in the allergic reaction. She explained how the cell works and what histamine does to the body.
Eight foods in the United States cause 90 percent of the anaphylactic reactions: peanuts, tree-nuts, fish, shellfish, milk, eggs, wheat, and soy. In Canada, a ninth food is sesame. Allergies can be outgrown. (Children with asthma also frequently have food allergies.)

Benadryl is an antihistamine medicine which works against histamines. It is administered orally for less severe reactions and requires about 20 minutes to take effect. Epinephrine is administered using an EpiPen for severe reactions where urgent treatment is needed. Karen showed how it is administered into leg muscle. 911 must be called when an EpiPen is administered.

She also explained other conditions, like lactose intolerance, which are not strictly allergic reactions.
In school, children are taught to read labels. No label? No thank-you. Even non-food products need to be examined for allergens. Cross-contamination is a problem in food preparation. To illustrate the importance of reading labels, Karen gave commercial food packages to members of the audience and asked them to look for allergens in the ingredients. For example, Ritz bits cheese crackers contain peanuts.

Karen told about a student (who is allergic to milk) who drank Gatorade and discovered after reading the label that it contained milk. Gatorade had changed their product offering to include three different drinks: before, during and after exercise. The “after” contains milk to supply protein. Karen had to administer an EpiPen to the boy. You have to read the label all the time.

Preparations for treatment are needed. You need to have your medication with you all the time. You need to be able to recognize the symptoms. You need to have a food allergy action plan. Medic “alert jewelry” is a good idea.

The school provides a safety net under kids who have food allergies. Eating is always supervised. EpiPen designees are assigned and trained. Health classes cover food allergies. Teaching and other staff are trained. Individualized student health-care plans are prepared. Emergency health-care plans are written. Food sharing is prohibited. Parents are sent “holiday reminder”.

The Southern Boulevard School chose strategies that maintain a safe environment. They also teach the students simple strategies that they can use outside of school. There is a safe snack basket in every class, and peanut-free pal zone (table in the cafeteria). Children are taught to continue to manage their own allergies after they graduate from school.

Mary Anne Maloney (L) thanked Karen (R) for teaching Kiwanis about food Allergies.

New Member Simon Mandal Inducted into Kiwanis on January 17.

2012-01-18T16:40:00.000-05:00

Simon Mandal was inducted into Kiwanis on January 17. His sponsor was AD Dudderer. In the above photo are (L to R) AD, Simon, President of the club Mary Anne Maloney, and Secretary Sharon Johnson.

AD introduced Simon to members. Simon is a sought after entertainer. He has performed as a magician, stand-up comic, actor, and clown. Simon has dazzled hundreds of thousands of adults & children with his lightning quick wit, disarming personality, and amazing sleight-of-hand skill. In addition to school and family shows, Simon performs for Fortune 500 Companies, including Google, Macy's, and JP Morgan.

AD put the Kiwanis pin on Simon’s lapel. Sharon and Mary Anne welcomed Simon into the club.

Program: Andy Bobeck explained how to improve digital photographs

2012-01-11T14:59:00.001-05:00

Award winning Chatham photographer Andy Bobeck spoke to Kiwanis about editing and printing photographs. At the January 10 meeting Melanie Sze introduced Andy, who is active in the Art League of the Chathams. Working with a renowned Drew University archeologist, Robert Bull, he brought to life details of figures in a film photograph of a fresco.

The fresco is located in the city of Caesarea Maritima in the western part of Israel on the Mediterranean coast. Andy explained the history of the city, now a resort town. Dr. Bull led a research expedition to the city in 1972. Excavation uncovered a statue and a stone structure containing a fresco. The Vault #1 structure containing the fresco is a Mithraeum, a meeting site for members of the cult of Mithras. The original research is described in book entitled King Herod’s Dream.

A photograph was taken of the fresco but it was not clear enough for analysis. Andy showed in his talk how he used digital editing software to bring a laser print of the fresco photo to life. Using a scanner, he created a digital photo and applied descreening to eliminate the laser-generated lines. He explained the photographic histogram (available on most digital cameras) and how it is used to edit digital images. The edited images were much clearer than the original, as everyone in the audience could see in the images projected during Andy’s talk.

As a bonus, at the end of his talk, Andy showed how he created photographic prints that look like an artist’s painting. He starts with five RAW images shot with a range of exposures. Files from these images are blended using special High Dynamic Range imaging (HDRi) software (e.g. Photomatix). HDRi adds detail to very dark and very bright areas of a photo taken in a wide range of lighting. He prints the photo, using an ink-jet printer, onto a canvas sheet. The print is sealed with acrylic and then bonded to glass with Gesso. He showed a framed photo of the center of Madison, NJ. Everyone in the audience thought it looked very nice. Samples of Andy’s work can be viewed at the Art League show now running at the Chatham Township Municipal Building.

The audience loudly applauded the very informative and helpful talk. Many of the Kiwanis members stayed afterward to talk with Andy.

Announcements: Kiwanis January 10, 2012 Meeting

2012-01-11T14:45:00.000-05:00

President Mary Anne Maloney reminded members that the Fish and Chips dinner will be held March 28. She announced that the NJ District Mid-Winter Conference will be held on Saturday, February 18 at the Ocean Place Resort andSpa in Long Branch, NJ. Several members will be going. Please let her know if you want to go. Our club Board meeting is 8:00 PM, Wednesday January 18 at the Chatham United Methodist Church. The CHS Key Club will also meet on that date at 7:00 PM. Nancy Boucher reminded everyone that she is selling Supermarket Gift Cards. Dick Plambeck said a few words in memory of Alex DeCroce, Assemblyman in NJ District 26 for over 20 years, who passed away last night at the Statehouse. He will be missed.

January 3 Program: Michael Mulhaul explained the Kiwanis ELIMINATE Project

2012-01-06T15:30:00.000-05:00

Mike Mulhaul (right), who is the Kiwanis NJ District Coordinator for the ELIMINATE Project was introduced by Jerry Cunningham (left). Mike is a Past Governor of the NJ District and an active member of the Greater Parsippany Club.

After introducing the ELIMINATE Project, Mike showed an excellent video explaining ELIMINATE. Click here to view the video on the web.

The last Kiwanis World-Wide Project was the Iodine Deficiency Disorders project, which raised over $80,000,000 to support UNICEF in eliminating this terrible illness.

Selection of the next International project was made by a consortium of Kiwanis members who participated in choosing the best project based on ideas from many members. The choice of the ELIMINATE Project was formally announced at last year’s Kiwanis International Annual Convention.

There are 38 countries around the world with serious Tetanus problems. UNICEF has been working on this since 1999. The MNT infection happens during the birthing process, which is often poorly controlled and very unsanitary. Both mother and child die horrible, painful deaths. The cost of prevention is minimal - only $1.80 for three tetanus shots, given at 8-week intervals. Treatment needs to be repeated every 10 years.

Mike asked the audience to seriously “take an interest” individually and as a club. The benefits of correcting the Maternal/Neonatal Tetanus (MNT) problem greatly exceed the cost and effort. Kiwanis is raising $110,000,000 over a period of four years. In 2015 when Kiwanis is 100 years old, the ELIMINATE project should be completed. In New Jersey, Kiwanis Family Clubs (including sponsored youth) need to raise $1,066,444.00 over the next four years. New Jersey has already contributed over $88,000.

Recognition is given, via the Zeller Award, for contributions of $1,250. This amount saves 695 lives. Walter Zeller is known for his contribution to the fledgling Kiwanis Foundation in the 1940’s. Individual Kiwanis Clubs can also qualify for recognition as “model clubs” ($75 per member during the 4-year period). Clubs can also qualify for the $100,000 Club Award. There are also other awards.

Mike passed around brochures describing what you and your club can do, how people can contribute money, and campaign recognition. To learn more about ELIMINATE, go to website www.TheEliminateProject.org. Click here to learn how to make a donation to ELIMINATE

Announcements: Kiwanis January 3 Meeting

2012-01-06T15:11:00.000-05:00

Stu Shippey announced that the Nut Sales were successfully completed in December and net income is $2,200. Members applauded Stu for running a very successful fundraising campaign. Income will go to scholarships and other local benevolences. Joan May, President Elect, announced that there was an Interclub at the CHS Key Club meeting on December 21. Deposits are due January 5 for the May 27 ELIMINATE cruise to Bermuda. Monty Montague volunteered to help run the March 28, 2012 Fish and Chips project.

Annual Kiwanis Christmas Breakfast Meeting Program on December 20, 1011

2011-12-24T13:57:00.000-05:00

Annual Kiwanis Christmas Program participants (L to R): Mary Anne Maloney, Rich Behling, Joan May, Bob Stannard, Nancy Boucher, Nancy Holt and Simon Mandal.

Rich Behling started the Christmas Program by telling a story about the religious meaning designed into “The Twelve Days of Christmas.” After describing what each of the numbers signifies, he asked Bob Stannard to play the song while all the members sang the words. Click here to see a website with the story.

Ron Whalin showed a video of TubaChristmas at Rockefeller Center in New York City. He took the video of about 500 musicians on December 11, 2011. Click here to see the video on YouTube.

Joan May described the history of a Christmas song, titled “Where is the line to see Jesus.” Then she introduced a YouTube video, which all members enjoyed. Click here to see the video.

Simon Mandal gave a very entertaining Magic Show. The cups and balls trick had all members wondering “how did he do it?” Simon said the trick was over 5000 years old and people believe it started in Egypt. The audience was delighted and in stiches at the end of the show. Click here to see Simon's website.

To complete the program, Nancy Holt spoke briefly about the true meaning of Christmas. She gave everyone her Christmas wish for all of us: Behind all the decorations, gifts, and parties she wishes that there will come a moment of quiet reflection and peace. That it will be truly said of each of us, we know how to keep Christmas. Merry Christmas and God bless you.

Announcements: Kiwanis December 20 Meeting

2011-12-24T12:32:00.000-05:00

Stu Shippey announced that the nut sale is coming to an end and all members are asked to purchase the remaining gift tins. Karen Swartz announced that the CHS Key Club will meet for the last time this year at 7:00 PM on December 21 in the cafeteria. Nancy Boucher still has supermarket cards so please buy them and use them as gifts. Greeting cards were sent to members who have been unable to attend meetings. The December Board meeting will be held right after the regular meeting. Poinsettia table decorations were given out to some of the members attending today’s meeting.

Alan Nekoukar, manager of Charlie Brown’s Restaurant in Chatham Township, was recognized and thanked by President Mary Anne Maloney for the excellent service and food he and his staff provided at Kiwanis meetings today and over the many years. Alan thanked the club members and acknowledged his Charlie Brown’s workers who did such a great job. Alan said that last year Kiwanis posted his photo on website. A long lost friend from 30 years ago, who had moved to California, found Alan because of that photo. The friend found the photo of Alan on the Kiwanis website and called him up. They have now renewed their friendship.

December 13 Program: - Rev. Richard Knox, Pastor of the Chatham United Methodist Church presented "Christmas in America”

2011-12-15T12:39:00.003-05:00

At the December 13 Kiwanis Luncheon, Rev. Richard Knox, Pastor of the Chatham United Methodist Church presented "Christmas in America”. David Lloyd, on the left in the above photo, introduced Rev. Knox. The talk covered the amazing history of Christmas in the United States.

Announcements: Kiwanis December 13 Meeting – Buy Nuts

2011-12-14T10:30:00.000-05:00

Stu Shippey needs everyone to buy/sell a few more nuts. He reported that all but about $500 worth of nuts have been sold. He asked each member to buy just one tin so that the club could make a profit to give to the scholarship fund. Please help the club successfully completed the project. PLEASE come to the December 20 Breakfast Meeting and buy the last of the nuts.

Karen Swartz announced that CHS Key Club will hold the talent show Project Showcase fundraiser on Friday night, December 16 in the auditorium.

Mary Anne reported that the St. Patrick’s Builders Club made all the ornaments for the Christmas giving tree. She also reminded members to buy Supermarket Gift Certificates which they can give as Christmas Gifts. She also noted that we will have our Annual Christmas Breakfast next week, December 20, 8:00 AM, Charlie Brown’s. If members have items for the programs, please email her.

Amos Chalif sent an email to Sharon Johnson, noting that he has been a member of Kiwanis for 57 years (he joined Chatham Kiwanis in 1954).

The December Board of Directors meeting will be held next week following the breakfast meeting.

December 6 Program: Joan Thuebel presented "Dancing Birds of Costa Rica"

2011-12-11T05:58:00.000-05:00

Joan Thuebel gave a slide show presentation on “Dancing Birds of Costa Rica” at the December 6 Kiwanis luncheon meeting. She participated in an Earthwatch scientific expedition to the western coast of Costa Rica, where she and others in her group documented the dances of Long tailed Manakin birds. The bird is unusual for its coloring, which changes as it matures over the years. David Lloyd (on right in photo) introduced the speaker.

The mating of these birds is called a “lek”. Multiple male birds do a coordinated group dance to entice females. Joan gave entertaining renditions of the dances, to the delight of everyone in the audience.

You can view a video of the Manakins dancing on YouTube. Click here to learn more about Earthwatch. At the end, the audience applauded enthusiastically and thanked Joan for the very interesting presentation.

Announcements: Kiwanis December 6 Meeting

2011-12-10T17:49:00.000-05:00

Matt Morris, Chief Fundraising Officer, brought greetings to our club from the Kiwanis International Staff Foundation. He said the International Kiwanis Club appreciates the good work done by our local Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Club and thanked members for their contributions to the Kiwanis Foundation. Gwen Walding, secretary of the NJ District of Kiwanis International, also attended the meeting.

Mary Anne Maloney reported that representatives from our club attended the recent NJ District Governor’s Dinner at Mt. Tabor Country Club. She also thanked Joan May for her leadership in making “Breakfast with Santa” a huge success. Joan thanked all the workers who helped out at the event. Nancy Boucher announced that MHS Key Club sent eight members to help as “elves” at “Breakfast with Santa”. Stu Shippey sold nuts at the event and he gave an update on the fundraiser. We have many gift tins left to sell. He asked everyone to buy at least one item.

Karen Swartz announced that the CHS Key Club meeting will be held on Wednesday at 7:00 PM in the cafeteria. Betty Anne Keat announced that the CMS Builders Club will meet on Thursday.

Mary Anne also reminded the members that an ELIMINATE fund-raiser cruise to Bermuda is scheduled for May 28, 2012. Deposits are due January 5.

Breakfast With Santa December 3, 2011 was a huge success.

2011-12-07T15:59:00.000-05:00

AD stirs the pancake batter.

Joan cooks sausage.

Mary Anne cooks pancakes.

Nancy checks in families.

Judy takes pictures of children with Santa.

David meets Santa.

David tells Santa what he wants for Christmas.

David enjoys his pancakes.

Children work on projects at the art table.

Magician Simon Mandal creates balloon art.

Simon makes a bicycle.

Simon creates a balloon Santa.

November 29 Program: Heather Alonge spoke on ECLC of New Jersey

2011-12-04T16:13:00.000-05:00

Heather Alonge (L), Director of the ECLC Foundation at ECLC of New Jersey gave an overview of the organization that serves students who have learning disabilities. She was introduced by Kiwanis President Mary Anne Maloney (R).

ECLC includes a school in Chatham, a school in Ho-Ho-Kus, a supported employment program housed in the Chatham Borough Hall, a day program located in an office on Passaic Ave. in Chatham and a day program in Bergan County. ECLC has changed their role and the need for client services has changed.

ECLC was started in 1970 by a group of parents who felt their children would have had a better life with early intervention. The organization now provides support for their graduates and clients through all phases of their lives. Heather showed many examples of successful activities at ECLC.

Currently, ECLC serves over 700 individuals from 175 New Jersey Towns. Starting with 6 children in the first school, there are now 350 students in two schools. ECLC has served over 2000 clients over the last 43 years. Growth is largely in the area of adult services. The developmental disabilities of clients vary greatly. Unfortunately, the disabled population is growing.

In 2010 the Ho-Ho-Kus campus added a service dog. Now the Chatham campus has one. Click here to learn about Gino on Chatham Patch.

ECLC Foundation will be embarking on a new capital campaign in early 2012. New funds will expand project PRIDE facilities, add air conditioning to schools and make other needed improvements. She asked Kiwanis to continue to support ECLC in these and other endeavors.

Kiwanis members in the audience were very impressed with the improvements ECLC has made in the lives of their clients.

Announcements: Kiwanis November 29 Meeting

2011-12-04T16:04:00.000-05:00

Mary Anne reported that the Madison Christmas Parade was a great success. She counted 13 members marching and reported that the crowd of onlookers was amazing. She asked members to let Ron or Rich know of any errors in the club directory. She also reported that Kiwanis is having an Interclub contest through June 30, 2012. Be sure to report all Interclubs to Sharon Johnson.

Nancy Boucher reported that a member of the Kiwanis International fund-raising effort for Project Eliminate will be in New Jersey next week. He plans to attend our Tuesday Meeting on December 6.

Karen Shippey announced that the club still has plenty of Mixed Nuts, Cashews and Tutles in holiday gift tins. She asked members to renew their efforts to sell the remaining nuts so that the club can make money for our Scholarship Fund. Stu wants to wrap up Nut sales by 12/24/11.

Karen Swartz announced several Key Club activities. There will be a restaurant night on December 12 at McLynn’s Restaurant in Springfield sponsored by Jonathan Dayton Regional High School. Project Showcase talent show will be held at the Chatham Library on December 16. Income from the event will go to project ELIMINATE. January 15, Key Club will sponsor a “day of silence” for Autism awareness.

Kiwanis Marches in November 25 2011 Madison Christmas Parade

2011-11-26T16:17:00.001-05:00

Kiwanis members and spouses started gathering at 5:00 pm. It was warmer than last year.

Marchers waved Merry Christmas.

The Treasurer (middle) of the Madison High School Key Club marched with Kiwanis.

At about 5:40 PM, the Kiwanis marchers lined up near the Madison Volunteer Ambulance Corps building.

A young marcher pulled a wagon carrying a Merry Christmas Tree, complete with lights.

After we reached the end of the parade route, the marchers waited for Santa to go by on the final float.

November 22 Program: Susan Lubin of Integrity Life Settlements spoke on turning life insurance into cash.

2011-11-23T14:44:00.000-05:00

Jill Gregg (left) introduced Susan Lubin of Integrity Life Settlements. Susan helps people who own a Life Insurance Policy sell the policy for cash. There is a Live Settlements Market that buys and sells Life Insurance Policies.

Some policy holders find that they no longer want the policy and would rather have the cash value of the policy. Life Settlement is an alternative to asking the insurance company for the cash value. This can result in the policy holder receive more cash than the “cash value” offered by the insurance company.

Today, an estimated $5 billion of life insurance policies are sold through the Life Settlements market each year.

The process involves many factors which potential sellers should examine before taking this step. Susan handed out literature explaining the process. Click here to go the Integrity Life Settlements website and learn more.

Announcements: Kiwanis November 22 Meeting

2011-11-23T14:35:00.001-05:00

Karen Shippey announced that last weekend’s Nut Sales at the Supermarkets went very well and we are about out of all bagged nuts. There are still plenty of nuts in gift tins: deluxe mixed nuts, cashews and kiwis. She asked all members to accelerate their sale of these items. We are about at the breakeven point. Next, we need to sell all the remaining nuts so we will have funds to put into scholarships and youth programs.

Gary Arnesen reported that the clean-up of the Passaic River Trail near Shepard Kollock Park in Chatham Borough went very well. Because of the storms this year, the work was pretty tough. He thanked all the participants. Click here to see photos on Chatham Patch.

Joan May reminded everyone about the November 25 Madison Christmas Day parade. We will gather in the Ambulance Corps parking lot starting at 5:00 pm. Club members are invited to meet Joan at Charlie Brown’s after the parade. Click here to view the Madison Patch article about the parade. Joan also reminded everyone to help with “Breakfast with Santa” to be held on December 3.

Betty Anne Keat told members that the Chatham Middle School is selling Entertainment Books and asked members to buy one.

Kiwanians help clean Passaic River Trail in Chatham Borough on November 19

2011-11-21T10:30:00.000-05:00

On Saturday November 19, members of Kiwanis, Chatham DPW and the CHS Key Club President helped clean up the trail that starts at Shephard Kollock Park and goes along the beautiful Passaic River. Click here to see more photos on Chatham Patch.

Kiwanis Sells Nuts at Local Supermarkets the Weekend Before Thanksgiving

2011-11-21T10:24:00.000-05:00

Therese and Stu sell nuts at entrance to ShopRite in Chatham Township

Mel and Stu sell nuts at entrance to Kings Supermarket in Chatham Borough

Sharon sells nuts at entrance to Kings Supermarket in Chatham Borough

Program: Michael Lupton of Wells Fargo Advisors in Morristown spoke about investments in today’s economy.

2011-11-16T11:53:00.000-05:00

Michael Lupton of Wells Fargo Advisors in Morristown was introduced by Jill Greg. Michael is a graduate of the US Naval Academy and has a Master’s in Business from Duke University. He served in the US Marines as a helicopter pilot.

He handed out literature on “non-spousal IRA” and “The benefits of the stretch IRA strategy.” As a Financial Advisor, he keeps track of the market and noticed on his Blackberry that the market was down again today. The economy and market have been tough in recent years with the latest problems being financial problems in Greece and Italy.

Locally we see business failing and inadequate funding for governments and schools. We wonder if there is anything we can do to insulate ourselves from these problems and realize benefits in the long term.

He introduced and explained a concept called “stretch IRA”. Wells Fargo clients are using this to more effectively pass funds to non-spousal beneficiaries. Michael stressed that he is not a tax attorney and that everyone should consult their own estate planning advisor. The concept is to stretch the assets out over a longer period of time, which will provide more time to recover value.

The approach benefits people which multiple sources of income who want to pass some IRA funds to beneficiaries. It is important to carefully select the beneficiaries. If they are young, the income from Required Minimum Distributions will be stretched over a longer period of time. There are many options for setting this up for non-spouse beneficiaries.

Over time, the market will recover and get better. This concept lets you park your investments so that they will last longer and you can leave your legacy to your family. It is important, especially in this down market, to periodically review you financial plans and to make prudent decisions. Click here for more information.

Announcements: Kiwanis November 15 Meeting

2011-11-15T18:05:00.001-05:00

Gary Arnesen announced the November 19 cleanup of Shepard Kollock Park in Chatham Borough from 9am to 10am. Karen Shippey reported that the total Nut Sales for last weekend at Madison Stop and Shop and Florham Park Kings was $940. Total is now $6,602. We are sold out of Bagged Mixed Nuts, Bagged Cashews and Peanuts in a 12-oz can. She also reminded members about next weekend’s ShopRite and Kings Supermarket sales in Chatham. There are a few unfilled time slots for members to sign up for and she sent the sheet around to members at the meeting. John May passed around sign-up sheets for the 5pm November 25 Madison Christmas Parade and the Breakfast with Santa on December 3 (helpers needed 8:30 am to 12:00 noon). Mary Anne announced the NJ Kiwanis District Governor’s meeting to be held on December 1, 6:30 pm at the Mt. Tabor Golf Course. She also announced that due to schedule conflicts, the Wednesday 11/16 Board meeting will be changed to November 22 immediately after the breakfast meeting. Several projects for 2012 will be discussed at the Board meeting. Marge Ahrens circulated a card for Mal. A CHS Key Club meeting is scheduled for 11/16 at 7pm. The MHS Key club will meet on Thursday at 2:45pm in the cafeteria.

November 8 Program: Lisa Montalbano of Employment Horizons

2011-11-11T11:47:00.001-05:00

Lisa Montalbano (L) of Employment Horizons was introduced by Valerie Olpp (R). Gary Sloan (middle) also told the audience about his experiences.

Employment Horizons, located in Cedar Knolls, NJ, provides jobs for people with special needs. Lisa told Kiwanis that the organization is a private, not-for-profit agency which started in 1957. They have a large facility on Ridgedale Ave. About 130 folks with disabilities come every day to do contract work such as package assembly for major corporations like Cablevision. Workers refurbish TV remote controls. Work is also done for Tiffany, the jewelry company. They have helped Bayer, the German drug company, prepare documents for a seminar. Promotional mailings are also processed for clients.

They now have a document management center and can help companies with their paper records. They do document scanning, imaging and shredding. Quality and confidentiality are controlled with the assistance of Employment Horizons staff.

Janitorial services are provided. For example, they serve the entire grounds at Picatinny Arsenal with about 100 people. They also provide cleaning services for the Town of Denville.

Gary Sloan talked for a few minutes about his position working for Pediatrics Ophthalmology Associates.

Lisa answered questions from the audience and asked Kiwanis members to consider Employment Horizons to obtain services (click here for more info).

November 8 Kiwanis Meeting Announcements

2011-11-10T09:40:00.000-05:00

President Mary Anne Maloney reported on cancellation of the November 2 meeting. Due to the power outages and other damage caused by the major October 29 snowstorm, it was necessary to cancel the meeting. A telephone calling team tried to reach all members and an email was sent out to all members using the Internet network access provided by the Library of the Chathams. In spite of diligent efforts, two members did travel to Charlie Brown’s Restaurant and found it closed where a sign “No Kiwanis Meeting” was posted on the door.

Mary Anne also thanked the nine members of our club who supported the Greater Parsippany Great Tasting event held recently.

Mike Mulhaul was present for the Interclub and he also thanked the members for working at the event. It was a great evening. Also, he invited members to attend the Greater Parsippany Kiwanis 20th Anniversary Celebration, 6:30 PM, December 5 at the Mountain Lakes Country Club.

Mike also announced that he is the NJ District Coordinator for the ELIMINATE project. He plans to give a talk to our club on the subject early next year. ELIMINATE is a four-year program to raise $110,000,000 to eliminate Maternal Neonatal Tetanus world-wide. New Jersey needs to raise $1,064,444.

Gary Arnesen announced that the final income from the Pasta Dinner was $1,793. He also announced that there will be a Kiwanis town clean-up held on Saturday, November 19 at Shepard Kollock Park. Time will be announced next week. Dick Plambeck added that the Environmental Commission is doing a major cleanup of that area of Chatham Borough. DPW will be out there with chain saws, wheelbarrows and chips to clean up and restore the trails in the area. Boy Scouts and other volunteers will also be out there working.

Stu Shippey reported that we are almost at the halfway point in selling Holiday Nuts. However, we have a lot more selling to do. There are four supermarket sales coming up the next two weekends. He needs more volunteers and passed around a sign-up sheet.

Mary Anne reminded everyone about the November 12 ELIMINATE walk in Cape May and the ELIMINATE Bermuda cruise next year.

Sharon Johnson reminded members to pay their dues.

John May passed around sign-up sheets for the Madison Christmas Parade and the Breakfast with Santa on December 3.

November 8 New Jersey Kiwanis District, Division 9 Interclub at Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Club

2011-11-10T09:28:00.000-05:00

Members from other Kiwanis Clubs in the North Jersey area attended our November 8 regular luncheon meeting at Charlie Brown’s in Chatham Township. Here are photos of our guests.

October 25 Kiwanis Meeting Program: Ron Whalin gave a presentation on Alaska

2011-10-26T15:40:00.001-04:00

In July, Ron and Bert Whalin went on a Road Scholar mainland and cruise trip to Alaska. Titled by Road Scholar (used to be called Elderhostel) “ALASKA: Deep into the last frontier”, the trip started in Fairbanks and ended in Vancouver. The above photo was taken from the MS-Zaandam in College Fiord. The program included many still photos and videos.

Traveling up the Chena River on the Discovery III paddle wheel boat, there was a stop at Trail Breaker Kennels where Alaskan Huskies put on a nice show.

At the Chena Village stop, tourists were given an interesting presentation on furry Alaskan animals.

During a 7-hour bus ride on the Denali Wilderness Tundra Tour, a Grizzly was seen eating berries.

In Glacier Bay, the cruise ship gave passengers a nice show of Margery Glacier calving ice. A National Park ranger narrated the event.

In Skagway, there was a very enjoyable ride on the White Pass and Yukon Route Railroad. About 400,000 people travel on this narrow gage railroad every year.

While Whale-Watching with Allen Marine out of Auke Bay, we witnessed a pod of seven humpback whales bubble net feeding. Many times, the large mammals dove, confused their prey of herring with a net made of air bubbles, and then soared to the surface with their mouths open.

After having a Salmon Bake at Orca Point Lodge we spotted Bald Eagles in the trees.

In Juneau a statue of Patsy Ann, a Bull Terrier, was placed on the dock after she died in the 1940s. Stone deaf, she was famous for greeting every ship that docked.

Kiwanis October 25 Meeting Announcements

2011-10-26T14:29:00.000-04:00

Sharon Johnson, Co-Chair of the Pasta Dinner reported that the club did very well at the Pasta Dinner. She thanked everyone for all the hard work. The final results are not yet tabulated. Nancy Boucher announced that ten members have not yet paid. An email will be sent out reminding all members to send her any outstanding payments. Karen Shippey reported on the holiday nut sales. We are half way to the break-even point in the project. She asked members to keep the orders and checks coming in. Club President Mary Anne Maloney attended the recent CHS Key Club meeting and reported that we had an “Interclub” and student participation is huge. She also attended the CMS Builders Club meeting. She reminded members about the Parsippany Kiwanis wine tasting in Mountain Lakes this coming Thursday. An email went out asking members to help pour wine. Also, Cape May Kiwanis is having an ELIMINATE walk to raise funds on November 12. Next year, a cruise to Bermuda is planned for May 27 to raise funds for the ELIMINATE project. Karen Swartz announced that she turned over a 16 gallon container and five grocery bags full of travel toiletries donated by members and others to the Eric Johnson House. Laura Silvius, editor of Chatham Patch posted a terrific article – click here.

Joan May announced that immediately after the meeting, there will be a workshop to assemble Christmas Bell favors to be handed out at the Madison Christmas Parade. The photo shows volunteers hard at work.

2011 Annual Kiwanis Pasta Dinner Enjoyed by Everyone

2011-10-23T12:34:00.000-04:00

Dave and Melda Pike and their grandchildren enjoyed the October 20, 2011 Kiwanis Pasta Dinner. Attendance grew again this year as many families dined in the Chatham High School cafeteria or carried out the spaghetti and meat ball dinners.

October 18 Program: Marisa Bolognese, Director of Good Grief, Inc. in Morristown and volunteer Beth Karpowic of Chatham spoke about the mission of the organization.

2011-10-21T17:08:00.001-04:00

Beth Karpowic (Left) and Marisa Bolognese of Good Grief, Inc.

Diane O’Brien introduced Marisa Bolognese, Director of Good Grief. The mission of Good Grief is ”to normalize grief in our communities through education, advocacy, and year-round support group programs for grieving children, teens and adults.”

Children are often the forgotten mourners. Good Grief has been around since about 2004. It was formed by a group of people who had experienced the death of a parent or sibling when they were young, had not been given much support, and believed that more support was needed. Children need to be brought into the grieving processes and Good Grief serves as a resource for children.

In 2007 they started a center where they could give direct support to the families. The demand for services grew quickly to the point that there was a waiting list. In four years, they have grown over 300 percent and currently serve over 100 families. Free support is provided as long as it is needed.
Marisa narrated a story about a typical family served by Good Grief. The father died in a sudden tragic accident. Group counseling helped the two children and their mother deal with their grief over a necessary period of time.

Beth Karpowic shared a story about a mother who lost her young son a few years ago. The mother and her 4 year old daughter came to Good Grief. Beth described the opening circle ritual where everyone passes the baton, says their name and says who died. Following the circle, people go into separate groups and then return for a ritual at the end of the evening. After a period of a year, the mother was able to deal with the loss of her son. Beth invited everyone to be a volunteer for this important work. Training is provided and it is a rewarding job.

Funding is provided by contributions from individuals, foundations and businesses. There is no governmental funding.

Good Grief is located on Elm Street in Morristown and everyone is invited to come for tours. Check out the Good Grief web site to learn more and to schedule a tour.

Announcements at Kiwanis October 18 Meeting

2011-10-20T09:42:00.000-04:00

Gary Arnesen thanked everyone for selling Pasta Dinner tickets and Mary Anne thanked Nancy for tracking the ticket sales on her laptop computer. Stu Shippey announced that he has received all the nuts for our Holiday Nut Sale. He thanked members for sending in their orders and urged them to get more sales. He needs another volunteer for Kings Supermarket sales. He will sell nuts at the Pasta Dinner. Mary Anne reminded members about the Parsippany Kiwanis Grand Tasting event on October 27. We will have an “Interclub” of members attending. Nancy Boucher reported that the head of Kiwanis International will attend on behalf of the ELIMINATE project. Betty Anne announced the Middle School Builders Club meeting on Tuesday and their Entertainment Book Sale. Also, Karen announced the CHS Key Club on Wednesday. There will be a MHS Key Club meeting on Thursday. She also announced that member John Hadamuscin’s mother (Clara Henry) passed away and the memorial service will be held at the Chatham United Methodist Church on Saturday at 11:00 AM. A reception will follow. Mary Anne mentioned that the Chatham Courier had an article about CHS Key Club collecting baby items to support a project led by Dr. Hurley. Joan May asked members to attend the Santa Bell workshop next week (see photo). She also asked members to review the Member Manual which was recently emailed out.

Photo of Madison Christmas Parade Kiwanis handout bell.

Enjoy Kiwanis Pasta Dinner October 20, 2011

2011-10-16T12:56:00.000-04:00

Chatham-Madison Kiwanis will hold its annual Pasta Dinner for the benefit of community projects and scholarships on Thursday October 20, 2011 in the cafeteria of Chatham High School, 255 Lafayette Ave., Chatham, 07928. Dinners will include spaghetti and sauce, meatballs, salad, parmesan cheese, rolls, drinks and a dessert. Arminio’s of Chatham, NJ will prepare the meals in the cafeteria. Servers will be members of Kiwanis, the Key Clubs of Chatham and Madison High Schools, the Builders Clubs of Chatham Middle School and St. Patrick’s and Circle K Club of Drew University. Kiwanis sponsors all of these student service clubs. Dining room service will start at 5:30 pm and continue until 7:15 pm. Take-out service is available from 4:30 pm to 7:15 pm. Tickets, available at the door, are $12.00 for adults and $7.00 for children 12 and under. Tickets can also be purchased from members of Kiwanis.

Chatham Mayor Nelson Vaughan spoke to Kiwanis on bipartisanship in politics

2011-10-16T06:51:00.000-04:00

President Mary Anne Maloney welcomed Chatham Mayor Nelson Vaughan who spoke to his fellow Kiwanians at the October 11 luncheon meeting. Nelson feels very strongly that this county needs bipartisanship in politics.

He pointed out that bipartisanship has worked in the past. When our founding fathers met to establish the United States, they understood that the common values that are shared are stronger than the less important differences that divide us.

We face major problems today. Democrats and Republicans should work together to create common-sense solutions using shared visions. As an example, our great President Dwight Eisenhower regarded Political Party difference as unimportant when he ran for president of the country.

In his early years, Nelson was a Republican and campaigned on behalf of Republican candidates. More recently, in 2004, he registered as a Democrat because he felt that changes were needed.
Nelson believes that there are good people on both sides of the aisle. Both parties generally have the same goals, but have different ideas on how to achieve those goals. Republican Leona Brown suggested that Democrat Nelson Vaughan run for Chatham Mayor – and he won. Republicans and Democrats working together, that is what it should be.

As Mayor, he wants to work with all residents, whether they agree with him or not. There is no partisanship in wanting to have a beautiful downtown Chatham, creating a Farmers Market, making the Borough greener, and establishing a Community Garden. Everyone wants Chatham to be a great Borough.

Although a Democrat, Nelson is a financial conservative. However, he is more in the middle on Social issues. He and the Council have worked together to accomplish many things. For example, the recreation fields have been greatly improved. In spite of the recession, improved services have been provided while keeping taxes under control.

We can overcome common challenges when we stand on common ground. After he took office, Nelson was asked by a relative of a resident who died in 9/11 to construct a Chatham monument. His greatest helper was Representative Republican Rodney Frelinghuysen. The monument was built on time.

Nelson is proud to be a Democrat but he also supports Republican candidates representing Chatham in the NJ State Legislature. Nelson called for voters to support leaders who will create a shared vision and work to achieve the best compromises to resolve differences.

After a round of applause from club members, Mary Anne Maloney thanked Nelson for his devotion to Chatham and for helping us to be a wonderful town.

New member Pat Davidson Inducted into Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Club

2011-10-16T06:29:00.001-04:00

At the October 11, 2011 luncheon meeting, Pat Davidson of Chatham was inducted into the Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Club. In photo, left to right, are Tom Mullin (past Secretary of the club), new member Pat Davidson and Al Robertson, who sponsored Pat. The club members enthusiastically welcomed Pat into Kiwanis.

Kiwanis October 11 meeting Announcements

2011-10-14T13:54:00.000-04:00

Club President Mary Anne Maloney reminded members to buy Supermarket Gift Cards. The club makes five percent of the value of all cards sold. She mentioned that Randolph Kiwanis is the sponsor of the Morristown Craftmarket to be held October 21 to 23 at Morristown Armory. She also mentioned the Parsippany Kiwanis 5th Annual Grand Tasting at the Villa in Mountain Lakes on October 27 at 6:30 PM. Stu Shippey said the nuts will be arriving this week and next. He passed around the signup sheet for supermarket sales. Gary Arnesen thanked everyone for participating in the planning for the October 20 Pasta Dinner. Betty Anne Keat announced that Chatham Middle School Builders Club will be selling entertainment books for $30.00 again this year. See her for more information. She also mentioned that the MHS Key Club is meeting every Thursday at about 2:45 PM in the cafeteria. Joan May announced a workshop following the breakfast meeting of the 25th for making handouts for the Christmas parade.

October 4 Kiwanis Meeting Program: Dick Haenschen spoke about the Chatham Kiwanis Scholarship Fund

2011-10-09T12:20:00.000-04:00

Dick Haenschen (Left) was introduced by Past President Rich Behling. Dick has been responsible for managing the CHS Scholarship Program. Every year the club gives scholarships to two graduating CHS seniors. Years ago, a member left in his will to the club a large amount of money which was invested in a 501(c)(3) foundation. This foundation funds the scholarship under the guidelines used when the foundation was established. Dick gave members information to consider as the club plans for the future of the scholarships.

October 4 Announcements

2011-10-09T12:17:00.000-04:00

Club President Mary Anne Maloney thanked Dick Plambeck for his leadership as President of the club last year. She also recognized the new officers of the club, including Sharon Johnson who will be the new Secretary. She also thanked Tom Mullin for his many years as Secretary. Mal Kitson is recovering at home from his eye injury. Gary Arnesen passed out the work assignments for the Pasta dinner. He also handed out Pasta Dinner posters. The poster is available on the club website. Stu Shippey handed out Holiday Nut Sale forms and displayed his new electronic marque badge telling people to buy nuts. Order forms are coming in already. He passed out signup sheets for supermarket sales. Nuts are ordered from our vendors and delivery is scheduled October 14 and 18. The Parsippany Kiwanis wine tasting was announced by Nancy Boucher. Joan May announced that Christmas is coming and the club will do the Madison Christmas Parade (11/25) and Christmas with Santa (12/3) at the Madison Community House. Mark your calendars.

September 27 Kiwanis Meeting Program: Dick Plambeck presented "Touring National Parks with Grandkids"

2011-09-29T09:32:00.000-04:00

This past summer, Dick Plambeck and his wife Barbara took two grandchildren on a 20-day grand tour of Western USA National Parks. Photo shows the travelers posing in front of Jenny Lake in the Grand Tetons.

Dick gave a very interesting talk, illustrated with still photos and a video. He also passed around two very nice photo books (one with 82 pages and over 380 photos) of the trip. He uses Shutterfly to produce the books.

The kids worked on National Park Junior Ranger projects at stops along the way and earned many badges during the trip.

The group flew to Rapid City, SD where they rented a Ford Taurus which they drove in a circular route, visiting many scenic places in South Dakota, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Utah, and Colorado. He used two National Geographics books to research and plan the trip - one on the national parks, the other on highways and byways.

This map shows the route taken during the trip.

This photo of Mount Rushmore was taken at night from the balcony of their lodge, using a telescopic lens.

This is a photo of the Devils Tower in Wyoming. It is the core of an old volcano. People do climb it.

Buffalo traffic jam in Lamar Valley of Yellowstone National Park.

Photo of Old Faithful Geyser erupting. Dick also showed a video of the action.

Zion National Park was discovered by Mormons, who gave religious names to the features. These peaks are named the “Three Patriarchs” – Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

Photo of Hoodoos in Bryce National Park taken from Sunrise Point at sunrise.

Dick took a lot of flower pictures and he put these into a beautiful collage, showing the variety of plants seen during the trip. Most in the collage were from Colorado.

Burro in rear view mirror at Custer State Park in South Dakota. One of the kids was scratching its nose.

The members enjoyed the presentation and Dick was awarded one of the complementary Kiwanis Club ball point pens.

Kiwanis September 27 Meeting Announcements

2011-09-29T06:27:00.000-04:00

President Dick Plambeck announced that Mal is recovering at home – he welcomes visitors. Last week’s Installation Dinner was very nice - the entertainment was wonderful, absolutely fantastic. Karen Shippey reported that Stu is placing an order for nuts so that some should be available for the Pasta Dinner at CHS. Order forms are now on the website and have been emailed to members. Sharon Johnson passed around the Pasta Dinner brochure. Let her know if you need copies to post around town. Nancy said tickets are in hands of club members. Members should be sure to pick up their new Kiwanis directories. Karen Swartz reported on last Wednesday’s CHS Key Club meeting – student attendance was huge. Jon Capizzi, the advisor while Kiera is on leave, did an excellent job – students signed up for membership and service projects. Mary Anne Maloney reported on the MHS Key Club meeting where a presentation was made on the ELIMINATE project. Bob Stannard reported that the Drew Circle K club is becoming very well organized – in a recent competition for collecting cans of food, Drew was the winner at 60 cans. Next Tuesday, 10/4/11 will be the first Kiwanis meeting of the new fiscal year.

September 20, 2011 Kiwanis Installation Dinner

2011-09-21T06:18:00.002-04:00

President Dick Plambeck passes the gavel to incoming President Mary Anne Maloney at the September 20, 2011 Installation Dinner held at the Brooklake Country Club.

Newly elected Vice-President John Eyre was welcomed by his “Newspaper Recycling” friends who read a special tribute: “Ode to John”

Division 9 Lieutenant Governor Gordon Meth installs class of 2014 Directors Tom Mullin, Betty Anne Keat and Nancy Holt.

Mary Anne presented the Distinguished Member Award to Rich Behling.

Marc Litwack was recognized for his contributions as this year’s Governor of the New Jersey District. Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Club members are proud that the New Jersey leader is a member of our club.

Beautiful entertainment was provided by Lindsay Maron. The rising young star sang some melodies from Broadway musical hits.

September 13 Program: Alan Robertson presented “From Munich to Venice by bus”

2011-09-16T08:47:00.000-04:00

Alan Robertson and Joan Frey took lots of photos on their June 2011 trip. A local photographer took this one of them enjoying coffee in Venice.

Alan showed a map he had made of the Tauck Tour route.

They arrived in Munich a day early and stayed in the Tauck-recommended Bayerischer hof hotel. Alan showed a photo of a very old monument to composer Orlande de Lassus newly decorated with Michael Jackson memorial candles, posters and photos. He and Joan enjoyed sausages with liters of beer in the HB Hofbrauhaus. The building looked historic, inside and out, and the band sounded great.

Munich was rebuilt after almost total destruction during WWII. Much of the architecture stemmed from the time of the “Holy Roman Empire”. Alan showed a photo of a beautiful palace beside a reflecting lake. He also showed a photo of the Munich town hall (which contains a glockenspiel). The square in front of town hall was filled with people.

Next stop was Salzburg, where Mozart lived. Tourists enjoyed a musical mime performing on the street and visiting the apartment of Mozart. Alan noted that Mozart was not killed by Solieri, but died from primitive medical care, including excessive bleeding.

Next stop was Innsbruck, where Alan and Joan saw interesting Rococo architecture. Alan showed a photo of the Maximilian-I cenotaph in Hofkirche (Court Church) and described its history. A cenotaph is an "empty tomb" or a monument erected in honor of someone whose remains are elsewhere.

The Dolomites were shown in a beautiful set of photos. A cable car took travelers to the snow-covered peaks.

Next they went to Bolzano, Italy where they stayed in a very nice hotel. After that, they went to Limone. The town is built into hills beside a beautiful lake. The scenery depicted in the photos was very nice. The people of this area are known by their long lives (many over 100 years old) - the result of excellent genes.

Last stop was Venice. They stayed in the Danieli hotel, an excellent hotel which was once the residence of a wealthy leader of Venice. The city has many canals, cozy bars, and attractions around Saint Mark's Square. Good maps and street signs are not available and it easy to get lost in the city. However, weather was very nice so he and Joan had a great time.

Saint Mark's Square

Announcements: Kiwanis September 13 Meeting

2011-09-13T20:33:00.000-04:00

Dick Plambeck announced that there will not be a Board meeting this month. He also reminded members to pay today for next Tuesday’s Installation Dinner at Brooklake Country Club, starting 6:00 PM. People can also pay at the door. The directory booklets are printed and in the hands of Treasurer Tom Mullin. He will pass them out at the Installation Dinner. Pasta Dinner Tickets were handed out to all members in attendance today. Nancy Boucher will manage ticket sales this year. Work assignments will come out in a couple of weeks. An order form is being designed for Nut Sales. Betty Anne Keat announced that the Chatham Middle School Builders Club is meeting at 2:45 PM next Tuesday (9/20). CHS Key Club holds their first meeting of the year at 7:00 PM on 9/21 in the cafeteria. Nancy Boucher reminded everyone to buy Supermarket Certificates. She also announced that Parsippany Kiwanis will hold their first wine-tasting of the season at the Villa on Rt. 46 in Mountain Lakes on October 27. Income will benefit the ELIMINATE project.

September 6 Program: Jim Malcomb, Madison historical writer, spoke on the Civil War

2011-09-10T16:58:00.002-04:00

AD Dudderar introduced Jim Malcomb, who spoke on the Civil War, from the perspective of an enlisted man: The Civil War Journal of Private Heyward Emmell. This year marks the 150th anniversary of the start of the American Civil War.

Emmell was a 19-year-old clerk working at a store in Morristown when in 1861 he joined Company K of the 7th Regiment, New Jersey Volunteers. He kept a journal of his 3-year enlistment and fought in many of the major battles in eastern US. The 7th Regiment was organized and led by Colonel Joseph Warren Revere, resident of Fosterfields and grandson of Paul Revere. Emmell was lucky to be led by Revere who was a military man who knew the value of training.

There are 10 Companies in a Regiment, each led by a Captain. Captains were people with money who recruited 100 men. James M. Brown of Chatham was Captain of Company K. Officers were recruited through the “old-boy” network. Enlisted men were recruited through advertising. Rallies were popular and effective ways to recruit. Women often inspired men to recruit. Posters and newspaper ads were used. Emmell did not say why he joined, but likely reasons are “to save the Union”, “to see the country”, “to find glory in combat” and peer pressure. Pay was $13 per month, a significant motivator at a time when the economy wasn’t very good.

Soldiers spent 60 percent of their time in camp, much of this in the winter. 35 percent was spent on maneuvers – getting ready for battle. 5 percent was spent in battle. Men stayed in tents. They walked, went in boats or on the railroad.

There were hijinks. The war was 4 million men spending 4 years going camping and using guns. Jim gave some examples of tricks played on other regiments.

In battle, troops fired their rifles by rank and Jim described how this can result in almost continuous shooting. There was much smoke and noise. Each soldier carried 40-60 paper cartridges. In a typical battle with 2000 soldiers on each side, there could be 240,000 shots fired. The artillery barrage at Gettysburg was the loudest noise heard in North American until the Atomic Bomb was tested in Alamogordo. Other noises were the bullets hitting objects, cries of wounded and the rebel yells. Smell was terrible.

In the Civil War, 620,000 men died, two thirds due to disease. In 1860, they did not accept the theory that germs caused sickness. Dysentery killed 150,000 men. Typhoid fever killed 100,000 men and many died of pneumonia. Lice were so common they were called “soldier bugs”.

By the end of 1864, it became clear that the South would lose. The first two years, there were plenty of volunteers. In 1863 the draft began. In 1864, some soldiers had fought for three years. By 1863, the nobility of the war was lost. By 1864, the humanity was lost. Sheridan’s Shenandoah Valley campaign and Sherman’s march through the South are examples of inhumanity. Soldiers used bones of the dead for souvenirs and as firewood for cooking.

The Civil War ended in April 1865. In October 1864 when their 3-year enlistment ran out, the 7th Regiment returned to New Jersey. Emmell did not reenlist and stayed in Morristown. He went to work in the Post Office and started his own picture framing business. He was successful, owned property, and was active in the “Grand Army of the Republic” (an organization similar to American Legion). Emmell was also a volunteer fireman.

Heyward Emmell has a Facebook page - Friend him. A website is under development and will be linked through the Madison Historical Society. Jim handed out business cards for Emmell. The publisher (FDU Press) has set a high price for Emmell’s journal. It is available at Amazon where there is a short preview. Jim will sell copies at his cost.

The members of the audience applauded enthusiastically for this interesting, illustrated, entertaining presentation.

Announcements: Kiwanis September 6 Meeting

2011-09-10T16:37:00.001-04:00

A sign-up sheet was passed around for the Installation Dinner. The printed member directories should be available for distribution at the dinner. Stu Shippey reported on plans for Nut Sales at supermarkets: Nov. 12 Stop & Shop – Madison, Nov. 13 Kings - Florham Park, Nov. 19 Shop-Rite - Chatham, Nov. 20 Kings – Chatham. Karen Swartz announced that the first CHS Key Club meeting will be 7:00 pm September 21 in the cafeteria. Bob Stannard announced that Drew Circle K has a very aggressive program going. 52 students have signed up. Gary Arnesen announced that October 20 Pasta Dinner tickets will be distributed to members at next week’s meeting.

August 30 Speaker: Leslie Greenberg, Director of Community Relations, Juniper Village at Chatham

2011-09-03T21:24:00.000-04:00

Karen Swartz introduced Leslie Greenberg, Director of Community Relations, Juniper Village at Chatham. Leslie gave a presentation about the Adult Independent/Assisted Living facility.

Just this week she visited many Adult Day Care Centers. Those facilities encourage people to live in their homes as they grow older.

Juniper has many residents who are independent. Why do they give up their homes and move to Juniper? Some have lost their mate. Mobility is declining for others.

Juniper has been chosen the number one assisted living facility in New Jersey for the past 3 years. A board of doctors from Blue Cross Blue Shield assessed the clinical services at Juniper. NJ Business Association assessed the rest of the facility. The facility is “green”; for example, the van is fueled by natural gas. The facility is very attractive and a broad range of activities are offered to residents. For example, there is a trip to the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center every year. There are many clubs.

Juniper is always full so there is a good revenue stream which funds the extensive activities. Juniper’s purpose is to help residents enjoy every bit of their remaining life. There is no lease for apartments. Residents pay rent, and also pay for additional services as needed. It is as if you are living at home and have access to all the services you need.

There is a medical center in the facility with skilled staff. Every kind of service is there when you need it. Her advice is to pick where you are going to live while you can. If you wait too long, your children will have to make the choice for you.

Funding does not come from Medicare. Some residents can be funded by Medicaid, but they must first go through 3 years of private pay. Private pay cost is $5,000 per month and up, depending on services required. There are VA benefits that are available to military veterans (and spouses). Juniper can help applicants explore this option which could pay a significant fraction of the cost. Long Term Health Insurance can also pay a portion of the cost.

Apartments are studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom (without kitchens). An excellent restaurant is on premises.

People interested in learning more should visit Juniper Village and discuss the offerings and benefits available. Click here to go to the Juniper Village website. Click here to go to the Juniper Village Blog.

Dick Plambeck thanked Leslie Greenberg for the interesting presentation and gave her a Kiwanis pen.

Announcements: Kiwanis August 30 Meeting

2011-09-03T21:16:00.000-04:00

Dick Plambeck reminded members about the Installation Dinner September 20. Rich Behling reported that the membership directory for next year is being printed. Tom Mullin reported that the Library of the Chathams sent a thank-you note for the Summer Reading Club picnic.

August 23 Program: Susan Dyckman gave an inspiring talk on NEW EYES for the Needy.

2011-08-26T09:06:00.001-04:00

Karen Swartz (R) introduced Susan Dyckman (L), Executive Director of NEW EYES for the Needy. Karen’s father-in-law Tom Swartz, a member of the Milburn Old Guard, is a dedicated volunteer for New Eyes.

New Eyes was founded in 1932 by Short Hills resident Julia Lawrence Terry to help poor people get glasses. She solicited contributions of gold and silver framed glasses and huge numbers of unneeded eyeglasses were mailed to Short Hills. They were melted down and sold for scrap value. Income was used to give grants to agencies which provided eyeglasses with the correct prescription to individuals in need.

About twenty years ago, the process was changed to a voucher system. Individuals in the USA can apply for a voucher if they have had a recent eye exam and if they are poor. Old recycled eyeglasses are still collected but now they are sorted and distributed overseas (through other agencies) to developing nations where there is a need. Last year, used glasses went to 30 different countries.

In the United States, if someone is in financial need and needs a pair of glasses, they can apply to New Eyes for assistance. It’s a very simple application. New Eyes asks for basic financial information and evidence of a recent eye exam. Most applicants are in desperate financial condition and New Eyes issues them a voucher. Any optician can accept the voucher and will provide basic (value of approximately $60.00) eyeglasses in exchange for the voucher. Over 4,000 optical dispensers, including Walmart corporation's vision centers, will accept the vouchers and deliver a pair of basic, fitted eyeglasses to the client. The vendor submits the voucher to New Eyes. New Eyes sends a check to the vendor.

After the 1970s, the frames no longer contained enough precious metals to fund the vouchers. To get the necessary funds, New Eyes now applies for grants from foundations, asks for individual donations, holds special fund-raising events, and sells donated used jewelry and giftware at the “Fabulous Finds Boutique” in Milburn.

New Eyes receives special funds specifically for children’s eyeglasses. Ronald McDonald House Charity made a $30,000 grant. Last year a young woman organized a fund-raising event in New York targeting younger contributors. This year, actor Jake Gyllenhaal participated in the “See for Change II” event raising $15,000. The successful event was sold-out - standing room only. A third source is the Kids Rock for Vision Concert. Middle school and high school bands perform at a “battle of the bands” event in Summit. A fourth source was related to a Bat Mitzvah, where contributions of $20,000 were raised. Because of successful fundraisers, New Eyes can deliver extended services for children in need.

New Eyes is taking the initiative to search out needy children who will be helped through improved vision. They are working with a school nurse association to urge them to enlist their help in identifying children needing the services of New Eyes.

The overhead for New Eyes is low. The paid staff is very small, with most work done by volunteers. About 250 volunteers help New Eyes over the course of a year. Some come as groups - others are steady, regular volunteers. All ages are represented (one woman has volunteered for almost 60 years).

Donors can drop of eyeglasses at three official New Eyes sites in Milburn/Short Hills. Eagle Scouts often organize collection programs. Lions Clubs have their own program but sometimes give used eyeglasses to New Eyes. Knights of Columbus donate glasses. Optometrist and funeral parlors provide some used glasses. Many people mail to New Eyes packages containing 2 to 500 pairs. People should contribute glasses regardless of condition because parts might be useable.

To learn more about New Eyes, visit the website at http://neweyesfortheneedy.org/. You can also visit them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/#!/neweyesfortheneedy .

Dick Plambeck, President of Chatham-Madison Kiwanis thanked Susan Dyckman for her excellent talk on NEW EYES for the Needy.

Announcements: Kiwanis August 23 Meeting

2011-08-25T09:44:00.001-04:00

President Dick Plambeck thanked Nancy and the rest of the “host committee” for doing a great job at the annual District Convention. Mary Anne Maloney reported that progress is being made on preparations for the September 20 Installation Dinner. Members should get all necessary information to Rich Behling for the Members Directory. Diane O’Brien thanked Tom Mullin for his excellent leadership and also others who worked on the Library Picnic. Dick said that many children attended. Tom also thanked all the workers who volunteered. John Eyre asked members to send greeting cards to Sam at his home address.

Nancy Boucher reports: 2011 NJ District Kiwanis Convention

2011-08-24T10:47:00.004-04:00

Nancy Boucher, who led host club support for the New Jersey District Kiwanis Convention, reported on the event. She acknowledged the work of Heather Alonge who printed the program, including an ad in honor of Governor Marc Litwack and Nancy. Nancy said that was very nice and a big surprise. She thanked other members of our club who helped with the convention: Nancy Holt, Betty Anne Keat, AD Dudderar and Joan May. They were the “host committee” and worked very hard. Over 250 people attended. A resolution was passed in the House of Delegates thanking Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Club for hosting the convention this year.

There were a lot of workshops on the ELIMINATE project. In the Coin Donation contest, where club members put money in a jar at each meeting, our club came in third. Kiwanis has Zeller awards for ELIMINATE donations of $1,250. Mike Mulhaul was selling Zellers and sold about a dozen, with contributors photographed the last day. There were also workshops on training officers and other topics.

AD Dudderar ran the Basket Bonanza all by herself and the project brought in $1,260. This amount was contributed to Children’s Specialized Hospital.

Nancy reported outcome of election of officers for next year. In a close vote, Joe Teti from Trenton won Governor-Elect. Rudy Fernandez from Livingston will be Treasurer. Nancy closed by passing around the program and list of memorials from the Sunday memorial service. At the service, Nancy placed a rose for Cory Fuller, who passed away last year.

Zeller Awardees - 2011 NJ District Kiwanis Convention
(Photo by Larry Meegan)

“One World Many Stories” - Kiwanis Sponsored Library Picnic

2011-08-21T11:16:00.000-04:00

The annual Library of the Chathams Summer Reading Program picnic was held on August 18, 2011 in hot, humid summer weather. Morning showers ended before the picnic, which was held in the afternoon in Memorial Park. (Photo shows Kiwanis Pres. Dick Plambeck and Children's Librarian Laura Weinbrom.)The park is behind the library which is located on Main Street in Chatham Borough. Food and workers were provided by Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Club. Kiwanis picnic organizer Tom Mullin reported that almost 300 hot dogs were served. He also reported that about twenty Kiwanis members were on hand to grill and serve hot dogs, chips, fruit juice and ice cream.

“One World Many Stories” was the theme for the Summer Reading Club at the Library of the Chathams this year. The program ran from June 27 to August 18 and was open to all children living or attending school in the Chathams. Children, including pre-K youngsters, participated in the summer reading program by reading books or by having books read to them.

Children’s Librarian Laura Weinbrom reported that 126 teen volunteers, with backup from the library staff, listened to book reports made by participating children. 272 children who read and reported on enough books were invited to the Kiwanis picnic. Weinbrom said that 548 children read and reported on 10,247 books. Volunteers who listened to reports contributed 1,388 hours with 59 volunteers giving over 8 hours and 37 giving over 20 hours.

Entertainment at the picnic was World Music with Daria. Children enthusiastically danced and played instruments to the beat of rhythmic music. The Chatham Women’s Club sponsored prizes for readers and the Friends of the Library sponsored the entertainment.

Library of the Chathams Director and Kiwanis member Diane O’Brien said “we were very happy that the weather cooperated and everyone had a good time.”

August 16 Program: Al Thomas, Boy Scouts of America, spoke on "Leadership Development for Teens"

2011-08-20T14:20:00.000-04:00

Al Thomas, Senior District Executive, Fishawack District, Patriots' Path Council, Boy Scouts of America was introduced at the June 16 Meeting by Betty Anne Keat. She said, “This summer Al spent 2 weeks hiking and camping with two other advisors and nine boy scouts at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico.” Al gave a fascinating talk on leadership development opportunities for teens.
He pointed out that Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts are excellent programs for developing youth leadership skills because the activities are led by the boys. Chatham and Madison have the best Troops you can find. Eagle Scouts become leaders of a community project. All Boy Scouts are encouraged to be in service to others and they develop their leadership skills along the way.

Aside from traditional Boy Scouts, other programs are offered for teenagers that develop leadership: Venturing and Exploring. Exploring is career-oriented; for example, there is an Aviation Exploring Post at Morristown Airport. Venturing is more about hiking and camping in a high adventure activity. Venturing Crews can also specialize in arts or other areas. Both programs are led by the teenage participants, which gives them experience and the opportunity to develop and improve their leadership skills. Adult advisors help organize the youth and provide guidance along the way. Leadership training is provided. Ventures are organized into Crews - Explorers are organized into Posts. Both can be coed or single sex, as determined by the participants (most are high school age). Choice of uniforms is up to the particular group of participants. Service to others is an important part of both programs.

Venture Crew 77 sponsored by the Madison Elks Lodge emphasizes High Adventure and Community Service. Youth interested in this activity can contact John Kennedy.

Al suggested that Kiwanis consider starting a Venture Crew in Chatham. Since Kiwanis already sponsors the CHS Key Club, sponsoring a Venture Crew would be a logical extension of the club’s focus on supporting youth.

He also gave an overview of the Leadership Venturing program offered by the Patriot’s Path Council. It consists of 11 modules that can be offered in a variety of customizable packages. This could be of interest to the CHS Key Club. A program specialist could describe the program at a Key Club Meeting.

Another educational program offered by Boy Scouts is “Challenging Outdoor Personal Experience” (C.O.P.E.). Participants spend a day at Mount Allamuchy Scout Reservation building their leadership skills. Building teamwork is an important goal.

A special event at the Stanhope camp will be offered the second weekend this September: “Extreme Leadership, Climbing to New Heights”. It has been designed by and offered to members of the Boy Scouts and also to others in the community. Similar events will be offered in the future. This program could be of interest to the Key Club.

Kiwanis members thanked Al for his interesting, complete and helpful overview of the programs. For more information, go to website http://main.ppbsa.org/

Announcements: Kiwanis August 16 Meeting

2011-08-17T10:55:00.002-04:00

Diane O’Brien announced the Children’s Summer Reading Program picnic will be held Thursday in the park behind the Library. In case of rain, the event will be moved into the large meeting room in the Library. Nancy Boucher announced the NJ District Convention to be held this coming weekend. She reported that the ELIMINATE project donation jar contained $115.42.

Program: Celina Baquiran, NJ District Key Club Lieutenant Governor for Division 14 spoke at the August 9 meeting

2011-08-10T21:17:00.000-04:00

Celina Baquiran, introduced by Key Club advisor Karen Swartz, is the NJ District Division 14 Lieutenant Governor. She attended the 2011 Key Club National Convention held in Phoenix, AZ. The photo shows Karen holding the NJ District T-Shirt and Celina is holding the badges she collected from other International and National Key Club Districts. She thanked the club for helping send her to the convention, where she learned much more about the workings of Key Club.

Before the convention officially started, the Celina had a chance to tour northern Arizona places like the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff and Sedona. Celina reported on preliminary bus tour followed by the daily events at the convention.

Dressed for a cool airplane and airport, it was a shock for her to walk into 110+ temperatures in Phoenix. Following a 3-hour bus ride to the Grand Canyon, she and the others went to view the beautiful sunset. She left the hotel the next morning at 4:30 AM to go see the sunrise and found that the temperature was a cold 45 at the Grand Canyon during sunrise. From there the bus went to Flagstaff, Sedona and then to the official hotel in Phoenix.

There was opportunity to meet other Key Club members during free time in the pool and while walking to the Mall. She was particularly impressed by the California-Nevada-Hawaii District. Members of that district are spirited, wear black and yellow outfits and have a special Cheer. She passed around photos taken at the convention.

The “Meet and Greet” session was held on Wednesday. Everyone wore their District T-shirts and pins. Pins were exchanged. Fund-raisers and other activities were on the schedule. An ice-breaker was a huge “Twister” mat. At the opening session, Amy Meisner of the NJ District sang the National Anthem. Nominations were made for International President, Vice President and Trustees. Caucusing was held after lunch. Jared Greene from Tenafly, NJ was running for International Trustee and he made it past the first round. Celina attended the ELIMINATE workshop and the “Keys to Meaningful Service and Great Service Projects” workshop. She also participated in the candle-lit “ELIMINATE Charity-Walk”. The first day ended with a dance.

On the second day, there were more workshops and a “Service Fair”, where Districts could do things. NJ had a booth where they raised $80 for the ELIMINATE project. Then there was more caucusing – NJ delegates lobbied for election of Jared Greene. Next was the recognition session. NJ District won many awards (click here to go the NJ website and read about the awards).

The next morning there were more workshops and Celina attended the Lieutenant Governor workshop. She also attended a workshop presented by NJ District on “How to Hold a Benefit Concert”. It was based on last year’s successful chain of “Generosity Rocks” concerts. The workshop drew a huge attendance with people sitting on the floor when all chairs were filled.

Next on the schedule was the “House of Delegates” meeting followed by election of officers and voting on amendments. Jared Greene was elected as one of the eleven Trustees. The 2012 convention will be held in Orlando, FL.

Celina said that she will try to get members of Division 14 more involved in the activities of Key Club. Members of Kiwanis loudly applauded the fine presentation made by Celina.

Announcements: Kiwanis August 9 Meeting

2011-08-10T21:03:00.000-04:00

Tom Mullin reminded everyone about the Library Picnic on August 18. Nancy Boucher asked members to add their contributions of cash to the ELIMINATE jar. Next week will be the last weekly meeting before the District Convention. Dick Plambeck reminded everyone to vote for Chatham Borough for the free barn. He also asked members to forward the email (originally sent out by Ron) to all people in their email directory. Mayor Vaughan passed out reminder slips for people to pass along to friends. Karen reminded members to collect toiletry items and bring them to meetings to give to NJAS.

Program: JoAnne Babbitt spoke about the John Taylor Babbitt Foundation

2011-08-04T18:00:00.001-04:00

Karen Swartz introduced JoAnne Babbitt who spoke about the John Taylor Babbitt Foundation. John was taken from his family and community in 2006 when he suffered a Sudden Cardiac Arrest while playing basketball. His family directed its grief toward positive improvements to help others avoid having such a tragic loss. The family started the 501-c3 Foundation to prevent sudden cardiac death through increasing awareness, teaching CPR/AED and installing Defibrillation Devices in public places.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) is the leading cause of death in the U.S., killing more than 295,000 people every year. Only 6 percent of victims survive and survival rates decline by 7-10 percent for every minute defibrillation is delayed. Sudden Cardiac Arrest is not the same as a heart attack (similar to a plumbing issue). SCA is more like an electrical problem in the heart – the heart malfunctions. Cause is often genetic and usually shows up after puberty.

Many deaths can be prevented by fast action and treatment. Automated External Defibrillators (AED’s) and CPR are most effective at restarting the heart when used within the first few minutes of collapse. Survival rates have been known to increase from 6-7 % to 50-70 % in certain settings (for example Newark Airport has lots of AED’s). The American Heart Association estimates that as many as 50,000 deaths could be prevented annually with widespread availability and use of AED’s.

Goals and Objectives of the Foundation are to install Defibrillators in schools, athletic venues and public gathering places; to establish JTB Heart Clubs in high schools and universities to raise awareness and save lives; and to support research on genetic cardiac disorders that increase risk of sudden cardiac death.

Current successes include Community AED Programs in 5 towns and 3 schools with CPR/AED training. A Good Samaritan Legislative Initiative is under way to reduce liability of untrained people in New Jersey who try to help. There have been many high school and university heart initiatives at, for example, Villanova, Chatham High School and Pingry. More initiatives are under way.

The Foundation enlisted CHS Key Club members to help man a booth at the Fishawack Festival. One of the Kiwanis members suggested that volunteers from MHS Key Club and Drew Circle K could also help support the Foundation. More CPR/AED training in high schools is being requested as part of the NJ-required health education.

The Foundation holds a “Walk with Heart” every May and has raised $40,000 to $90,000 each year. Pingry students help operate the event.

The Chathams were among the first towns to put AEDs on the playing fields. A Guide was created to propagated the AED program to other towns, like Toms River. Continuing training is needed and maintenance is needed for machines.

JoAnne is very thankful for the support for the Foundation from the local community. She suggested that everyone go to the Foundation website, http://jtbfoundation.org/index.cfm, and view the video on the front page.

From Left: Mary Anne Maloney, JoAnne Babbitt, and Karen Swartz

Announcements: Kiwanis August 2 Meeting

2011-08-04T14:31:00.000-04:00

Tom Mullin asked members to sign-up to work at the Children’s Reading Club picnic on Aug 18 in the park behind the Library of the Chathams. Tables and food need to be set up about 2:00 PM. The grill need to be set up and lit at 2:30 PM. Cooking of hot dogs will start at 3:30 PM. Kids start coming about 3:45 PM. Mary Anne Maloney announced that the Installation Dinner will be held at the Brooklake Country Club on September 20. The Pasta Dinner, managed by Gary Arnesen and Sharon Johnson will be held on October 20. The NJ District Convention, hosted by our club, will be held Aug 19-21. She also reported that we received a thank-you letter from New Jersey Aids Services for a Kiwanis contribution. Karen Swartz reminded members to bring in small toiletries items to donate to NJAS.
Mayor Vaughan asked all members to vote for Chatham Borough in “The Great Barn Giveaway”. Click http://www.greatbarngiveaway.com/ and then click on the “CLICK HERE” to cast your vote for the winner of the free barn. You will need to enter your email address. The barn will be set up at the site of the Farmers Market. Many more votes are needed to win!

Mayor Vaughan asks everyone to vote for Chatham Borough

2011-08-04T14:22:00.000-04:00

Mayor Vaughan says, "Please vote for Chatham in the Great Barn Giveaway." Click on http://www.greatbarngiveaway.com/ and follow instructions. This will support the Chatham Farmers Market.

July 26 Program: Clyde Zukswert spoke on his “Prescription for a Meaningful Life”

2011-08-04T14:12:00.000-04:00

Kiwanis Club member Clyde Zukswert gave us his “Prescription for a Meaningful Life”. He was inspired by Edward McVaney of Denver, who wrote to his grandchildren about choices that will affect their happiness and success.

Clyde’s Prescription began with “A Positive Attitude”, followed by “The Importance of Honesty”. The second one is illustrated by the many people in high positions who have lied when accused of wrongdoing, only to be exposed when the truth came out. This has led to the resignations of our President, some Congressmen, and the head of a nationally distributed newspaper. The next on Clyde’s list is “Respect (and Concern) for Others”. He cited Princess Diana as an example of this in her public life. Similar to this is the importance of “Doing for Others”. An example of this in his life is the work of the volunteer fire fighter. He also mentioned his admiration for the work of Jimmy Carter with Habitat for Humanity.

Clyde’s list continued with his advice to consider your job as a “Career for Life”, and you will find fulfillment. This will be true, even when you change careers, as he did. Next is “Keep Active for Life”, for which he cited the story of Joe Foss, a Marine pilot who later became Governor of South Dakota. With “The Importance of Reading”, he told the story of his dad, who had to leave school early to help his family. However, he kept up his education by reading his brother’s textbooks. He later returned to school and then earned a CPA. The last prescription was to do a “Random Act of Kindness” every day. For Clyde, this has brought hope, happiness, meaning and fulfillment to a life well lived.

After waiting for the applause to subside, President-Elect Mary Anne Maloney thanked Clyde for sharing his Prescription with our members, and gave him a Kiwanis pen as a token of our gratitude.

July 19 Program: Dr. Joe Murphy spoke on “How to be Healthy”

2011-07-31T21:41:00.000-04:00

Dr. Joe Murphy, Chatham Chiropractor and member of Kiwanis gave a talk on five essential components for being healthy.
1. Nutrition: Eat a high fiber, low fat diet containing 30 % protein (mostly fish and chicken), 50 % carbohydrates (mostly composed of vegetables) and 20 % fats.
2. Exercise: Regular exercise, 30 minutes 3 times a week. 20 minutes aerobic...walking, swimming, etc...10 minutes strength weights.
3. Rest: You need 6-8 hours of sleep, not resting on a couch, per night. A person needs 3 to 4 hours of continuous sleep for the brain to rest. Lying on a couch rests the body, not the brain. Use a firm mattress.
4. Have a Good Mental Outlook on Life: Waiting for happiness is not an option.
5. Use Health-Care Providers: Go to doctors and exercise people who are trained and you can relate to and understand.

Joan May with Dr. Joe Murphy

July 12 Program: March of Dimes Foundation.

2011-07-30T21:37:00.000-04:00

Started in January of 1938 by President Franklin Roosevelt as the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis (NFIP) to combat Polio, with which he was afflicted. After the Foundation funded research that led to vaccines by Salk and Sabine, and the virtual elimination of Polio, the mission was changed to Fighting Birth Defects, and eventually to Improving the Health of Mothers and Babies.

The North Jersey Chapter of March of Dimes, located in Pine Brook, sent its Community Director, Jacqueline (Jackie) Kelly, to bring us up to date, Ms. Kelly brought with her, Gina Ihne to share in her presentation. Our speakers were introduced by Herb Ramo.

Much of the current effort and research is focused on reducing the number of premature babies, for they often suffer from birth defects and conditions like Cerebral Palsy and Autism. It is particularly severe in the inner cities, where pregnant mothers don’t have (or don’t seek) the pre-natal advice and treatment that could make a difference. In Camden, Jersey City, and Newark, support groups are formed, consisting of 8 to 12 pregnant women. They are advised on the importance of pre-natal care, and encouraged to participate in “The program”. The results have been very positive. Conclusion: It works!

The Program is aided by the participation of medical companies, including Johnson & Johnson, and by the financial support of those leaders and volunteers who conduct the successful fundraisers. The first of the “Walk for a Cure” fundraisers was the Foundation-sponsored Walk-America in 1970. It has continued to this day, and is now called, March for Babies.

At the conclusion of the program, President Dick Plambeck presented our traditional Kiwanis pens as a token of our appreciation.

July 5 Program: Janice Piccolo gave an update on the Chatham Farmers Market

2011-07-07T09:51:00.003-04:00

Janice Piccolo, Manager of the Chatham Farmers Market, gave an update on the very successful weekly event, which is held 8:00AM to 1:00PM every Saturday until November 19 in the railroad station parking lot. Janice previously managed the Madison market for 15 years. Now in the fifth year of operation, the Chatham Market serves multiple purposes for the community.

Some key ingredients are environmental activism, farmers directly sell source verified consumer confident products, encouraging volunteerism (25 volunteers on the Market committee), a chance to meet socially with your neighbors, nutrition and good health, a venue to publicize programs like the Mayors Wellness Program and the “know your numbers campaign”, civic support for local not-for-profit service organizations (27 visited last year), a gathering space for enjoying entertainment like the Chatham Brass Band and other artists and performers.

The Chatham Market belongs to organizations like the Farmers Market Coalition of the United States and New Jersey Council of Farmers and Communities. They try to maintain the New Jersey farmer’s land to avoid urban sprawl and help farm families earn a living by farming.

Volunteers, dressed as corn and tomato marched in this year’s Independence Day Parade. Janice offered a volunteer badge to anyone in the audience.

Many special events at the Market were listed on complementary bookmarks handed out to members.

Visit the Chatham Farmers Market website to learn more. The Market also has a Facebook Page.

Announcements at Kiwanis July 5 Meeting

2011-07-07T08:35:00.001-04:00

Dick Plambeck announced that Sharon Johnson and Gary Arnesen will co-chair the Pasta Dinner fundraiser. The next Board meeting is Wednesday, July 20 at the Methodist Church. District Convention will be August 19-21. He passed around thank-you notes from ECLC graduates and an invitation to a Boy Scout camp open house. Mal Kitson was given a standing ovation for managing the hugely successful Kiwanis march in the Independence Day Parade. He thanked Mary Anne Maloney and Nancy Boucher for managing the decoration of the Lady Liberty and Chatham Band floats. Karen Shippey made a very nice flame to sit at the top of Lady Liberty’s torch. There were many marchers. Click here to view the YouTube video (shot by Stu Shippey) of Kiwanis floats and marchers. Nancy reported that $390 in supermarket gift certificates have been collected from Kiwanis members to give to the Eric Johnson House. She also announced that members can contribute their loose pocket change (deposit in the container at the check-in table) to go to the ELIMINATE project. Karen Swartz reminded members to bring in items to donate to Eric Johnson House.

Kiwanis Marches in 2011 Chatham Independence Day Parade

2011-07-07T06:56:00.000-04:00

June 28 Program: Jim Peck, Executive Director of Cora Hartshorn Arboretum

2011-07-04T15:45:00.002-04:00

Jim Peck, Executive Director of Cora Hartshorn Arboretum in Short Hills spoke on nature areas in New Jersey. An expert on New Jersey parks, he entertained the audience and left us with ideas for New Jersey places to visit. This talk was an encore performance of his excellent February 22, 2011 program.

Jim is pictured on left (with Kiwanis President Dick Plambeck) wearing his 50-million-year-old New Jersey shark’s tooth fossil necklace. He has visited all USA states except North Dakota. He has written a monthly article for a local newspaper for about seven years.

He showed a photo of a recent visit to the arboretum by a couple who had carved their initials in a Beech tree more than 50 years ago. The two were high school sweethearts in 1960. The heart and initials are still at the same height because lower parts of the tree don’t grow higher over the years.

He reminded the audience about some of places described in his February talk. He travels to specific places with a mission to see and learn about something in particular. He travels light, without climbing or special hiking gear.

Big Brook in Colts Neck has a lot of fossils – he found his shark’s tooth there. Visitors should take kids there because they get excited. Island Beach State Park is one of his favorite places, anywhere. Palisades Park along the Hudson is also nice.

Great Swamp is where the Passaic River begins. The Swamp has Wildlife Management and Natural areas. He showed a winter photo of Great Falls at Patterson. It has the largest volume of water flowing over a waterfall east of Niagara Falls. He described the geology of the Palisades near Patterson Falls and the historical use of the falls to drive local industries.

He showed a photo of the Eastern USA’s oldest old-growth trees located in Bear Swamp West near Millville, NJ (the South Jersey town has a glass factory). They are Tupelo trees that are hollow and can grow in water. Go in the winter to avoid insects and better see the size of the trees (no leaves). A lot of mistletoe lives in the same area. Driving and walking to this site takes a long time.

Franklin, NJ is one of the two places in the world (somewhere in Africa is the other) with highest concentration of minerals. Jim showed photos of the Franklin Mineral Museum and nearby zinc mine (with another museum where you can tour the mine). It is the fluorescent mineral capital of the world and many NJ school children have visited the site. (Nancy Boucher mentioned that the local Kiwanis Club helped run the museum.) You can buy Franklinite samples there.

He also described the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge in Oceanville, NJ. Also, he showed a photo of the Bamboo Forest in Rutgers Garden.

Jim is looking for donations and volunteer workers to support a boat-building outreach program for kids from Milburn and Union. He showed photos of the project which helps children build 12-foot skiffs.

We ran out of time before Jim ran out of places to talk about. It was a great program and we will have to ask him back again. Jim emailed us the following list of places he described and others we could visit.

Places in Jim's talk

Cora Hartshorn Arboretum, Short Hills
Sandy Hook
Hackensack Meadowlands
Snake Hill (in the Meadowlands)
Crooked Swamp Cave
Cheesquake State Park
Sunset Beach, Cape May
Wildcat Ridge (north Jersey)
Delaware and Raritan Canal
Pine Barrens
                Pakim Pond
                Apple Pie Hill
                Town of Chatsworth
                Pygmy Pine Forest
                Greenwood Wildlife Management Area boardwalk
                Canoe to Wading River
Buttermilk Falls, Delaware Water Gap
Helmetta Pond, Helmetta,
Fossil hunting in Big Brook, Colts Neck
Palisades Park
Island Beach State Park
Great Swamp Wildlife Management Area
Great Falls, Patterson
Bear Swamp West – near Peek Preserve in Millville
Franklin Mineral Museum
Sterling Mine
Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge

Kiwanis Presents Graduation Awards to ECLC of New Jersey Graduates

2011-07-04T05:03:00.000-04:00

Dick Plambeck, President of Chatham-Madison Kiwanis is pictured left, rear row in above photo with some of the ECLC 2011 graduates. Kiwanis presented graduation awards to all 23 graduates of ECLC at the June 16 ceremony.

Announcements: Kiwanis June 28 Meeting

2011-06-29T07:50:00.000-04:00

Mal Kitson announced Independence Day Parade. Mary Anne Maloney asked members to bring staple guns to decorate lady liberty float. Meet at 4:00 PM Sunday July 3 behind Weichert’s on Main St. in Chathm. Nancy Boucher reminded members to help decorate the Chatham Band float at Coviello’s in Madison, 8:00 AM on the 4th of July. The American Flag holder will be provided. Members report to march at intersection of Ogden and Hillside. Next Board meeting is Wednesday, July 20, Chatham United Methodist. Nancy Boucher will hold a dinner meeting, 6:00 PM July 13, at her house to plan for managing this year’s District Convention (we are the host club). Through this summer, Karen Swartz will collect small unused travel toiletries (saved from hotel stays) contributed by members and give them to the NJAS/Eric Johnson House. Also, bring in unused dental goody bag items. Today, members bought $240 in Supermarket Cards from Nancy Boucher for contribution to NJAS.

Program: New Jersey Aids Services (NJAS)

2011-06-24T16:45:00.001-04:00

Marty Sechehay introduced speaker Laurie Litt-Robbins, New Jersey Aids Services CEO.

Laurie has been with the Eric Johnson house since it was founded in 1994. She presented a history of the organization. Early residents of the EJ house with Aids had no options and have passed away. Later, medical treatments became available so residents lived longer and have broader needs. The organization provides many services and tries to deliver them efficiently. Some clients have improved enough that they go off welfare.

A major goal is to provide education to people ranging from middle schools thru college students on up to the older adults. Unfortunately, the population has lost interest in education because there is medical treatment now. But the problem is still very bad. There is continuing discrimination and unfair treatment of HIV/Aids patients. June 5 1981 is the first recorded date of HIV. After 30 years there is still a lot of misunderstanding.

NJAS worked with other NJ organizations to have a single Aids Walk for raising funds and awareness. Volunteers are helpful in many tasks, like driving people to appointments. ShopRite gift cards are used to buy groceries. Service organizations are urged to hold food and household product drives. Laurie left members a list of items that are needed.

New Jersey has about 75,000 reported HIV cases with almost 35,000 still living. About 1100 HIV patients live in Morris County. The rate of infection has not decreased, world-wide. To learn more, please visit the NJAS website http://www.theericjohnsonhouse.org/

Announcements: Kiwanis June 21 Meeting

2011-06-24T16:31:00.000-04:00

Nancy Holt announced that there will be a Benevolence Committee meeting 6/28 after breakfast. Dick Plambeck reported that he made presentations at CHS, ECLC and MHS awards events and passed around several thank-you notes for review by members. A thank-you was also received from the “Save-a-Child” movement. The Geralda Farms concert is June 26. Mal Kitson reminded everyone about the July 4th parade. Nancy Boucher reminded that we are the host club for the District Convention.

Madison High School Graduating Seniors Receive Kiwanis Awards

2011-06-18T09:38:00.000-04:00

The Madison High School Awards Ceremony for the 2011 graduating class was held on June 16 at the Fairleigh Dickinson University Ferguson Recreation Center. Two Madison graduating seniors received awards from the Chatham - Madison Kiwanis Club.

Club President Richard Plambeck presented the Nancy Boucher Service Award to Emily O’Gorman. The award is presented to a graduating senior who has demonstrated a commitment to service and through those efforts and example has had a positive impact on others. Emily has done an outstanding job as Corresponding Secretary of the MHS Key Club and has served as a bowling team coach for Special Olympics. She also participated in “Relay for Life”, has been an active leader in her church youth group and served as a Morristown Memorial Hospital volunteer. At the ceremony, she was also recognized as writer for the Yearbook, “Alembic”, and for her membership in the National Honor Society. Other awards included Presidential Award for Academic Excellence, Honors Graduate and National Merit Society – Commended.

Madison Musician Jerry Vezza presented the Jerry Vezza Award for Outstanding Accomplishment in the Field of Music to Elizabeth Meek. The award, sponsored by Kiwanis, is given to a graduating senior who has a love for music with passion, discipline and dedication to excellence in the art of music. Elizabeth has been a member of the MHS orchestra for four years, where she has been a leader in the cello section. At the awards ceremony, she was also recognized for her work as Submissions Editor of the “Glyphs”, the Literary Magazine. At the end of the ceremony she was recognized for her membership in the National Honor Society, Presidential Award for Academic Excellence, and National Merit Society – Commended.

Annual Kiwanis-Rotary Picnic June 14

2011-06-16T15:31:00.000-04:00

Ed Kostrowski, incoming President of the Chatham, Millburn and Short Hills Rotary Club barbequed London broil at the Kiwanis-Rotary picnic held at the Chatham Borough Firehouse on June 14, 2011. The Kiwanis-Rotary picnic is held every year. The clubs alternate serving as host – this year, Rotary was the host. It is a great opportunity for the two service clubs to socialize and exchange ideas.

There was a huge rain shower just before the picnic, but about 6:00 PM, the sky brightened, the rain stopped and the sun came out. The picnic was just ending when the showers returned, so everyone went inside the firehouse to enjoy a last cup of coffee.

The food was excellent and everyone had a great time. Total attendance was 25, which was great, considering the rainy weather.

The Rotary club holds three meetings per month at Enzzo’s Trattoria in Milburn and one meeting per month at the Library of the Chathams.

Program: On June 7, Mary Cuoski and Deborah Castro spoke about the Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey.

2011-06-08T11:46:00.000-04:00

For over 110 years, Visiting Nurse Association of Northern New Jersey has provided quality health care to residents of the greater Morris County area. In photo above, Dick Plambeck welcomed Visiting Nurse Association speakers Mary Cuoski (L) and Deborah Castro (R), who gave a comprehensive presentation on the organization and its services. The population is living longer and the many older citizens require assistance. Over 44 million American adults provide care for an aging loved one, and that number will rise. VNANNJ provides help and support for the care givers.

Respite Care is offered to provide a break for someone serving in the caregiver role. HHA service a provided to relieve full time caregivers of their workload. The Friendship House Adult Day Care Services are offered to those with Alzheimer’s. Community Health Programs include In-Home Caregiver Education, House Calls for Groceries, Philips Lifeline and Telehealth. Medicare can help recipients who are eligible.

How can the VNANNJ help? They are a Medicare certified Homecare agency in Morris County, provide all services required and will work with your MD to plan care. Call them at 1-800-WE-VISIT or go the website: http://vnannj.org/.

Announcements: Kiwanis June 7 Program

2011-06-08T11:39:00.000-04:00

Dick Plambeck (R) introduced Al Thomas (L), Senior Executive for the Fishawack District of the Patriots’ Path Council, Boy Scouts of America. Al was visiting to share ideas for helping young people and to explore partnerships with the Kiwanis Club. Erv Martin reported attending the Kiwanis Club of LeMars Iowa meeting and reported on their club activities. The Senior Center of the Chathams sent our club a letter with a donation in honor of the fine work of the CHS Key Club, which baked deserts for the recent senior fund-raiser. Betty Anne reminded members to attend the final CHS Key Club meeting of the year. The year-end celebration will start about 2:30 PM June 8 in the cafeteria. Tom Mullin passed around the sign-up sheet for Fishawack. He needs people for this coming Saturday afternoon. John Hadamuscin needs people to help pull pork on Friday at 1:00 PM at the Methodist Church. Mal Kitson reminded everyone to get ready for the 4^th of July parade. Sign-up sheets were passed around for decorating the “Lady Liberty” float at 4:00 PM on Sunday (July 3) at Chatham Main and the band float at 8:00 AM on Monday (July 4) at Coviello’s. Members should march with the floats in the parade. ECLC graduation ceremony and MHS awards ceremony at FDU are both on June 16. Dick reminded everyone about the District Convention. He also reminded them to vote today. Next week’s Tuesday meeting will be the annual Kiwanis-Rotary picnic starting 6:00 PM at Firehouse Plaza.

Chatham Kiwanis Music Awards Presented at June 3 CHS Awards Assembly

2011-06-08T11:36:00.000-04:00

At the June 3 Annual Awards Assembly held at Chatham High School, four graduating seniors were recipients of Kiwanis Club Music Awards. These awards are given every year. Winners this year were Ryan Fauver, who received the John Philip Sousa Band Award; William Smart who received the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award; Dylan Tencic, who received the National School Choral Award and Matthew Bryers, who received the National School Orchestra Award. Dick Plambeck, President of Kiwanis, was on hand to present these awards. Check out theChatham Patch Awards Assembly article, which includes photos.

2011 Annual Chatham High School Kiwanis Scholarship Winners Announced

2011-06-03T17:37:00.000-04:00

Year-2011 Chatham Kiwanis Scholarship winners Annie Monson (left) and Christina Kim (right) were introduced by Kiwanis Club President Dick Plambeck at the May 31 Kiwanis breakfast meeting. They will also be recognized at the June 24 CHS graduation ceremony as this year’s winners of $8,000 Kiwanis Chatham High School scholarships. Students receive $2,000 per year for four years.

Detective Supervisor Mark Castellano of the Morris County Prosecutors Office Spoke on Crimes against the Retirees and Seniors

2011-06-03T17:22:00.000-04:00

Detective Supervisor Mark Castellano of the Morris County Prosecutors Office was introduced by Mary Anne Maloney at the May 31 Program. The speaker described several frauds that members should watch out for. Topics included email scams and identity theft. Ways to protect against criminals were presented.

Seniors who are targeted have money, are polite, trusting and reluctant to admit being duped. Scam emails are carefully crafted to sound real and to appeal to the targeted person’s emotions. The email sender asks for money with the promise of paying it back. If people receive emails like this, they should become suspicious and close examination will probably show “defects” in the email they received. People who receive this type of email should just delete it.

If homeowners deal with contractors, they need to make sure that they are reputable. They should be registered with the state of New Jersey. Ask for written estimates and check references. Check with the municipal government regarding a contractor. Tell the contractor you will not pay more than the original estimate.

If an unsolicited call comes to your phone line from someone asking questions, be sure to give no information to the caller. It is better to just hang up on the caller.

Musician Jerry Vezza Welcomed at Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Meeting

2011-06-03T17:14:00.001-04:00

Nancy Boucher introduced Jerry Vezza, a well-known Madison musician. Several years ago, Madison Kiwanis had an annual fundraiser called “all that Jazz” at Shanghai Jazz in Madison. Jerry Vezza was very kind to the club and helped by performing at the fundraiser. He also brought MHS students to the fundraiser. Because of his kindness, the Madison Kiwanis Club named a music scholarship after him. The scholarship award is given to a graduating Madison High School music student. Jerry made the scholarship presentation last year and will make it again this year on June 16 at the MHS awards ceremony held on the campus of Fairleigh Dickinson University.

Announcements: Kiwanis May 31 Meeting

2011-06-03T17:04:00.000-04:00

President Dick Plambeck described the Chatham Memorial Day Ceremony, using plaques newly refurbished by American Legion Post 43. Also, the Kiwanis NJ District Convention will be August 19-21 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Somerset, NJ (we will be the host club). Dick mentioned that information on the ELIMINATE project is available on Kiwanis websites. Gary Arnesen reported that the Chatham Ogden St. clean-up went well and six bags were filled with litter, including spikes discarded by railroad workers. He thanked club members for their hard work and announced that the next clean-up will be in July. Jerry Cunningham reported that the Veterans flag-placement at Fairmount Cemetery was well-attended and he thanked the members for their work. Nancy Holt reported that the she received a thank-you letter from the Interfaith Food Pantry with photographs of their new building under construction. Dick noted that the Chatham Community Garden will harvest and deliver produce to the Food Pantry on a weekly basis during the summer. Tom Mullin passed around a sign-up sheet for the Fishawack pulled-pork booth.

Members of Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Place Flags to Observe Memorial Day

2011-05-27T06:24:00.000-04:00

On May 26 twelve members of Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Club placed flags at the graves of United States of America Military Veterans buried in Fair Mount Cemetery in Chatham Borough. Bob Huntington, past president of the club and Navy Veteran, obtained the flags and organized the work. Kneeling beside the gravestone of Raymond Hart, US Army Private, are members of post 92 of the American Legion Bob Huntington (L) and Herb Ramo (R). Standing (L to R) are Monty Montague, Marjorie Ahrens, Nancy Hart, Dave Mutchler, Mary Anne Maloney, Dick Plambeck and Jerry Cunningham. Not in the photo are John Eyre, Mal Kitson and Ron Whalin.

Kiwanis May 25 Chatham Clean-up

2011-05-27T06:19:00.000-04:00

On May 25, six members of Chatham-Madison Kiwanis removed litter from the Ogden St. area of Chatham Borough. In above photo taken by Sharon Johnson, organizer of the project Gary Arnesen is holding his dog. Others (Left to Right), are Marge Ahrens, John Eyre, Dick Plambeck and Clyde Zukswert. The photo below was taken by Gary showing Sharon holding Gary’s dog.

May 24 Program: Susan Allen presents Chatham Historical Society video of 1926 “Three Towns Pageant”

2011-05-27T05:43:00.001-04:00

Left to right, Susan Allen, Mary Anne Maloney, Dick Plambeck, and Bailey Brower

Susan Allen showed an amazing video of the historic pageant held in Chatham in 1926 to celebrate the sesqui-centennial celebration of the birth of our nation. Susan gave an informative and entertaining narration, describing what we were seeing, the names of performers, etc. The video sound track provided background music.

Briefly, the 1926 Three Towns Pageant lasted two hours and was held at a location near the present day Minisink Club tennis courts. Hundreds of performers from Chatham, Madison and Summit moved on and off the grass stage as 10,000 people watched from a hillside. The Chatham Historical Society has documented the details of the event from newspaper articles. Clickhere to view photo of newspaper front page.

Members of the audience were delighted by the video presented by Susan. They applauded loudly and stayed after the Kiwanis meeting to learn more. Click here to see a more detailed description and sample of the video in a Chatham Patch on-line article.

Announcements: Kiwanis May 24 Meeting

2011-05-27T05:22:00.000-04:00

Betty Anne announced that the last school-year meeting of the CHS Key Club with be June 8 in the afternoon, right after school. Gary reminded everyone about the Chatham Ogden St. clean-up May 25 at 9:00 AM. Bring rakes. Jerry announced the Fair Mount Cemetery Veterans flag placement on Thursday, May 26 at 9:00 AM. Evangeline announced the Alumni Concert which will be held next Saturday, May 28 at Madison Memorial Park. Tom passed around info on the Fishawack festival, June 11, where Kiwanis will sell pulled pork sandwiches. He also described special member badges which he can make for members. Clyde reminded about the Wednesday, May 25 Robert Burns Interclub at Argyles in Kearny. Kiwanian Baily Brower, a member of the Chatham Township Committee, also spoke a few words about the primary election.

Kiwanis Church Service and Sunday Brunch May 22, 2011

2011-05-23T08:22:00.000-04:00

The Chatham-Madison Kiwanis Club attended the 10:00 AM church services at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Chatham on May 22, 2011. It was a very joyful occasion as two children were baptized. Church members welcomed the Kiwanis members and we all had a very nice time. Following the service, the Kiwanis members drove over to Winberies in Summit for a filling and delicious Sunday Brunch.

Sunny weather for the Madison Cole Park Kiwanis Community Yard Sale

2011-05-22T20:33:00.000-04:00

Vendors and customers were treated to pleasant weather at the Saturday, May 21 Madison Cole Park Community Yard Sale, sponsored by Chatham-Madison Kiwanis. After a week of rainy weather, the park was pretty soggy and there was mud in some table spaces. Working together, everyone was able to set up their tables and enjoy a successful sale. All income will benefit local high school youth scholarships and other youth-oriented causes.

Kiwanis May 17 Meeting Announcements

2011-05-22T20:29:00.001-04:00

The annual Stanley Park picnic was held at Nancy’s house because of the heavy rain. Members of the club sang “happy birthday” to Erv. Joan announced that there will be 17 tables at the Yard Sale if everyone comes. Vendor Agreements have not been sent in, probably because of the bad weather this week. She said we will definitely hold the event on Saturday. Marge announced the annual church service at St. Paul’s at 10:00 AM and brunch at Winberies at 11:30. Joan announced the Alumni Concert on May 28 between 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM at Memorial Park in Madison. Gary reminded everyone about the Ogden St. clean-up May 25 at 9:00 AM. If it is raining, the clean-up will be moved to early June. Memorial flag placement at Fair Mount Cemetery will be May 26 at 9:00 AM. Rain date is the next day.

Recycling Newspapers with Southern Blvd. School Brownies

2011-05-22T20:21:00.000-04:00

On May 12 a team of Kiwanians opened the Newspaper Recycling container to help Southern Blvd. School Brownies recycle newspapers. The Brownies put the newspapers in bags and their leaders drove them to the Kiwanis site. Then they put them onto the conveyor. In the above photo, Monty and Dave are stacking the newspapers in the container.

Robert A. Mayers, author of “The War Man” spoke about events of the Revolutionary War

2011-05-14T11:28:00.001-04:00

Dick Plambeck (left) welcomed author Bob Mayers, who spoke on the Revolutionary War. He presented a PowerPoint story about his relative John Allison, a Haverstraw, NY farmer who spent the entire war in the Continental Army. His eight years at war took him from Quebec to Yorktown. For thirty years, Bob researched the life of John Allison and summarized his findings in a very interesting book, which he summarized at the Kiwanis meeting. There are only a few useful journals about the common soldier in the Continental Army. However, there is a rich paper trail of information for soldiers.

John played a role in many of the important battles and met many important generals and leaders. Bob told an entertaining, fascinating story and was given a big round of applause. Click here to learn more and purchase the book.

Victoria Dayton, President of Drew University Circle K Welcomed by Kiwanis

2011-05-14T11:25:00.000-04:00

Victoria Dayton (photo above) spoke to the club about latest developments in the Circle K club at Drew University. She is the new President of Circle K. All of the current officers are graduating so there will be new officers in all positions. Nadia Roof will be the VP, Savanna Arasbi-Katbi will be the Secretary, Abigail Dingle will be the Treasurer. Victoria is also the webmaster for the Drew Circle K Website (click here). She invited Kiwanis to give her items to post for advertising on the Circle K website. Victoria’s goal next year is to increase membership in the Circle K club.

Announcements: Kiwanis May 10 Meeting

2011-05-14T11:18:00.000-04:00

Jerry thanked the 11 people who helped spruce up Cole Park for May Day in Madison. Joan reminded members that we will hold the Stanley Park picnic luncheon next Tuesday, 5/17. In case of rain, the picnic will move inside at Nancy Boucher’s house. Go there instead of Stanley Park if it is raining. For the May 21 Yard Sale, we need more member tables. She put a flier on tables for the May 28 Alumni Concert. The Board meeting is Wednesday 5/18, 8:00 PM at the Methodist Church. Jerry reminded members to help put flags at the Fair Mount cemetery on May 26. Gary announced that the Chatham clean-up will be May 25, 9:00 AM at Ogden Street. Marge announced the church brunch on May 22 at 10:00 AM at St. Paul’s Episcopal in Chatham. Dick Plambeck announced that Chatham Environmental Commission will have a clean-up Saturday, May 14 at 9:00 AM at Shephard Kollock Park. Kiwanis officers were elected for next year by acclimation.

2011-05-08T12:05:00.000-04:00

At 8:00 AM on May 7 a team of Kiwanians spruced up Cole Park as part of "May Day in Madison". Photo above shows Joan, Rich, Karen and AD posing in front their beautiful work.

Program: "ARC of Morris" by William R. Testa, Executive Director of The Arc/Morris Chapter

2011-05-07T03:59:00.001-04:00

Mary Anne Maloney Introduced Bill Testa, Executive Director of Arc/Morris. He has almost 30 years of experience with the organization.

Bill began by showing a photo of Carrie and John and told the story of Arc through the couple. Arc provides services for people with “intellectual disabilities”. The Arc national movement began with self-help groups when soldiers returned from WWII. Arc/Morris was born in 1953. Early services were for children. Families were often told to “put their child away” as soon as they were born. Children with disabilities were put into state institutions.

In the 50’s, Arc/Morris found new families in need and organized efforts to provide services. President Kennedy’s sister Rosemary had a disability and making this public accelerated the growth of services for disabled.

John was born in the 60’s. Carrie is older than John. She is 80 years old in 2011.

In the 70’s Geraldo Rivera exposed the terrible conditions in the Willowbrook State School on Staten Island. The story led to a growing movement to question public policy around people like John and Carrie. This led to improvements to state institutions but Arc continued to struggle for resources in local communities.

Then in the 80’s Reagan discovered that better service at lower cost could be provided through community based organizations. Reagan allowed Federal money to be allocated to community services. This led to unparalleled growth in Arc.

Now, we no longer lock away people with disabilities but allow them to live within their communities. Arc moved Carrie from an institution to a group home and then she was able to move to her own apartment. After John’s father died, John moved from his parents’ home into a group home in Chester about five years ago. He met Carrie there and they became good friends. Arc/Morris serves many very disabled people, mostly adults. Most require around-the-clock care, or close to it.

Arc has an extensive residential program, including a house in Chatham Township. There are 19 group homes across Morris County. Communities are becoming more receptive to these group homes.

One in 10 families are affected by intellectual disabilities. John and Carrie are just a slice of the Arc activities. Arc is funded primarily by Medicaid. Funds are short. Kiwanis members applauded the speaker and the good work of Arc. Click here to learn more about Arc.